As Pakistan prepares to face Bangladesh in a pivotal two-match Test series, all eyes will be on Shaheen Shah Afridi, who is on the brink of a significant milestone in the World Test Championship (WTC). The left-arm pacer is poised to become the first Pakistani bowler to claim 100 wickets in the WTC, a feat that underscores his pivotal role in Pakistan’s bowling attack.
Shaheen Afridi, the young thunderbolt of Pakistan’s pace attack, has been nothing short of a cricketing juggernaut. With 91 wickets in just 24 Test matches, this 24-year-old speedster is on the cusp of breaching the coveted 100-wicket mark in the World Test Championship. Just nine scalps shy, Afridi stands tall as Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker in the WTC.
Afridi’s World Test Championship record carries an average of 27.23 which could make batsmen across the globe break into a sweat. He has achieved three five-wicket hauls and nine four-wicket hauls, with his best bowling figures being 6 for 51. His performances have consistently stood out in both home and away conditions, highlighting his adaptability and skill as a top fast bowler.
Afridi’s dominance is evident when comparing his record with that of his peers. Naseem Shah, the next in line for Pakistan in terms of WTC wickets, has claimed 51 wickets in 17 matches, with an average of 33.82. Yasir Shah (41 wickets), Noman Ali Abrar Ahmed (38 wickets), and Hasan Ali (35 wickets) follow, but none have matched Afridi’s impact.
Afridi’s ability to perform consistently against a variety of opponents highlights his exceptional talent. He has faced Australia seven times in the WTC, claiming 22 wickets at an average of 38.40, and has been particularly effective against the West Indies, with 18 wickets in just two matches at an astonishing average of 11.27. His record against Bangladesh and Sri Lanka further showcases his adaptability, with 15 and 18 wickets respectively.
Afridi’s performance, both at home and abroad, underscores his versatility. In domestic matches, he has played eight games, claiming 29 wickets at an average of 27.72, including one five-wicket haul. His record away from home is even more striking, with 62 wickets in 16 matches at an average of 27, supported by two five-wicket hauls. This ability to deliver consistently in both home and away conditions is vital for a bowler looking to leave a significant impact in international cricket.
Reaching 100 wickets in the WTC would not only mark a personal achievement for Afridi but also elevate his status among Pakistan’s great fast bowlers. It would symbolize his contribution to Pakistan’s competitive edge in the Test arena and his ability to perform under pressure.
As Pakistan takes on Bangladesh at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium and the National Stadium in Karachi, the focus will be on Afridi’s journey to this milestone. Fans and cricket analysts alike will be watching closely to see if he can reach this significant achievement and further solidify his legacy in Pakistan cricket.
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