Dubai( The COW News Digital) Pakistan’s premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi added another feather to his cap by achieving a major milestone in T20 International cricket. His all-round brilliance helped Pakistan secure a crucial victory against Bangladesh in the Asia Cup Super Four clash.
Shaheen’s performance was nothing short of sensational. Coming in to bat during a tense moment, he smashed a quickfire 19 runs off just 13 balls, giving Pakistan the crucial push to post a defendable total of 136 runs. However, his real magic came with the ball.
True to his reputation of being a lethal new-ball bowler, Shaheen struck in the very first over, removing two of Bangladesh’s top-order batters and immediately putting Pakistan in control. He returned in the death overs to dismiss Shamim Hossain, who was threatening to take the game away from Pakistan, thus swinging the match decisively in his team’s favor.
Shaheen finished with remarkable bowling figures of 3 wickets for just 17 runs in his four overs—an exceptional performance in a high-pressure game. His ability to deliver with both bat and ball earned him the Player of the Match award, marking the 10th time in his T20 International career that he has received this honor.
With this latest accolade, Shaheen Afridi has now become the fastest and most decorated fast bowler in T20I history in terms of Player of the Match awards, setting a new benchmark for bowling excellence in the shortest format of the game.
Cricket analysts and fans alike lauded Shaheen’s efforts, praising his knack for striking early, which often tilts the momentum in Pakistan’s favor. Former players on commentary highlighted that Shaheen’s consistency with the new ball is “priceless” for Pakistan’s chances in big tournaments.
Pakistan’s captain Salman Agha credited Shaheen’s spell as the turning point of the match. “Shaheen once again proved why he is our match-winner. He delivered with both bat and ball, and we are lucky to have him,” said Agha during the post-match presentation.
Pakistan’s victory has now set them up for a much-anticipated final against arch-rivals India, where Shaheen will once again be the key weapon to dismantle the opposition’s top order.
