Shaheen Afridi Becomes Youngest Bowler To Take 100 Wickets in All Formats
- Fahad Bin Khalid
- December 12, 2024
- 3:04 pm
- 22
- Sports
Shaheen Shah Afridi makes history again! The 24-year-old Pakistani fast bowler is now the youngest to take 100 wickets in all formats. And that was achieved in the first T20I against South Africa as he took 3-22 in a match-winning display.
A Record for the Ages
Shaheen's achievement puts him alongside Lasith Malinga, Tim Southee, and Shakib Al Hasan. They are the only players to have taken 100 wickets in T20 Internationals. The interesting point is his age. He has achieved this at just 24, eight years ahead of the previous holder, Southee. This makes Shaheen the first Pakistani bowler and the youngest player in the world to record 100 wickets in Tests, ODIs, and T20Is. His steep rise is the manifestation of raw talent by dedication and relentless pursuit to excellence.
Heroics in a Tough Game
Although Shaheen was sheer brilliance, it wasn't enough to win the game for Pakistan as the team fell short by 11 runs when chasing a target of 184. Still, much of that loss was offset with how spectacularly Shaheen batted.
His nerveless efforts and sharp accuracy took three wickets. They showed why he is the key to Pakistan's bowling attack. With such impressive consistency, Shaheen continues to be a shining light of hope for Pakistani cricket.
What's Next for Shaheen and Pakistan?
This T20I series is nowhere near over. The two teams will face off again in the second T20I on December 13 in Centurion. The final match is in Johannesburg on December 14. Then, there will be three ODIs. They are on December 17 and 19 in Paarl and Cape Town, respectively. The last one is on December 22 in Johannesburg.
A busy cricket season will end with a two-match Test series. It starts on December 26 in Centurion and ends on January 3 in Cape Town.
However, fans will not witness Shaheen during the Test matches. The selectors have decided to rest him. They want to manage his workload and keep him fresh for the 2025 ICC Champions Trophy. It is a wise move to ensure that pace sensation remains on top of his game for the future challenges.
Why Shaheen's Milestone Counts
Shaheen's record is not just a personal triumph but a proud moment for Pakistan cricket. It praises the country's great emerging talent. It says Shaheen could be one of the greatest bowlers ever. This young pace star keeps breaking records and amazing fans. Now, they can only wait for what's next. One thing is certain, however: Shaheen Afridi is here to stay and destined for greatness.
