Shaheen Shah Afridi becomes the number one
The cricketing world is buzzing as Pakistan’s 23-year-old fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, obtains the coveted number-one rating in bowling. This extraordinary achievement comes from a fantastic performance at the ICC World Cup 2023. Personal glory, however, takes second place to Afridi’s aim of leading Pakistan to win the tournament.
Read: Pakistan Squad for ICC World Cup 2023 [Announced]
Shaheen surpasses Josh Hazelwood
The story of Shaheen Shah Afridi’s rise to the top of the global bowling rankings is one of unflinching dedication. He has overtaken Australia’s Josh Hazlewood to take the top rank in the current World Cup with 16 wickets.
Read: ICC Cricket World Cup points table 2023
In a recent match against Bangladesh, Afridi demonstrated his abilities by getting three crucial wickets while conceding only 23 runs.
Check: ICC Cricket World Cup Winners 1975-2019
Pakistan won convincingly by seven wickets, reviving hopes of reaching the semi-finals. Afridi’s dismissal of Tanzid Hasan was his 100th wicket in only his 51st one-day international (ODI).
I am overjoyed to have completed 100 ODI wickets, but the most important thing is that all of these wickets are for Pakistan, and my objective is to always do something that helps us win.
Shaheen talking about his 100th wicket
This unselfish commitment to the team’s success shows Afridi’s perception of cricket as a team sport in which individual accomplishments are secondary to collective triumphs. It serves as a reminder that cricket is about collaboration, common goals, and the honor of serving one’s country.
How did Afridi adapt?
Talking about playing in India for the first time, he said:
“I saw several IPL matches this year, and there wasn’t a lot of swing.” As a result, I’m not shocked. But this isn’t just for me; it’s also for other left-handers like Starc and Boult. I anticipated there would be less swing, so the focus is on maintaining a correct line and length, which is critical.”
All eyes on the semi-finals
Pakistan’s World Cup hopes are still alive after their recent victory over Bangladesh. Afridi’s outstanding efforts have been critical. With six points from seven games, the route to the semi-finals is difficult. They must win their final two games and rely on favourable outcomes in other games to secure a berth.
As we all anxiously wait, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s climb to the top of the bowling rankings is a monument to his talent, devotion, and flexibility. It reminds us that cricket is more than a game; it is a journey of growth, learning, and striving for excellence.
