Shaheen Afridi Reaches 100 WTC Wickets, Joins Elite Pace Group

Key facts

• Shaheen Afridi is the first Pakistani bowler to take 100 World Test Championship wickets.
• He reached the milestone on May 7, during the first Test against Bangladesh.
• Afridi is the 19th bowler overall to achieve 100 WTC wickets.
• Former cricketer Ramiz Raja commented on Afridi's reduced pace during the match.
• Afridi dismissed Bangladesh opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy for 8 runs.
• Pakistan captain Shan Masood opted to bowl first in the Dhaka Test.
• The match is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2025-27 cycle.

Historic Milestone in Dhaka Test

Shaheen Afridi etched his name in the history books on Friday, becoming the first Pakistani bowler to claim 100 wickets in the ICC World Test Championship. The landmark achievement occurred on the opening day of the first Test against Bangladesh at the Shere Bangla National Stadium. Afridi reached the milestone by dismissing Bangladesh opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy, marking a significant moment in his burgeoning career. This feat places Afridi among an exclusive fraternity of bowlers, as he is only the 19th player globally to surpass the 100-wicket mark in the competition. At just 26 years old, the left-arm pacer continues to solidify his position as one of Pakistan's premier red-ball bowlers and holds the record for the most wickets by a Pakistani in WTC history. The ICC World Test Championship, which commenced on August 1, 2019, has seen Australia's Nathan Lyon lead the overall wicket-takers with 210 wickets from 50 matches. Afridi's consistent performance underscores his importance to Pakistan's Test aspirations.

A Career Defined by Pace and Precision

The recent milestone follows a strong showing from Shaheen Afridi in the Pakistan Super League, where he captained Lahore Qalandars. In that tournament, he captured 16 wickets across 10 matches with an impressive average of 18.19. This continued form highlights his enduring value to Pakistan cricket across all formats. His Test record is already formidable, boasting 121 wickets in 33 matches at an average of 27.92, with a career-best of 6 for 51. Beyond Tests, Afridi has claimed 139 wickets in 74 One Day Internationals at an average of 25.13, and 136 wickets in 103 T20 Internationals at 21.35, including his best figures of 4 for 22. Despite his youth and established success, Afridi's recent performances have not been without commentary. His enduring impact on the game, however, remains undeniable.

Scrutiny Amidst the Milestone

During the live commentary of the Dhaka Test, former Pakistan cricketer and commentator Ramiz Raja raised questions about Afridi's pace. Raja observed that the fast bowler appeared to be bowling at a reduced speed, likening his rhythm to that of a 'medium pacer' when compared to some of the Bangladesh bowlers. This observation came shortly after Afridi produced an edge from a batter, though the opportunity for a wicket was missed due to a dropped catch. Despite the momentary lapse in fielding, Afridi soon delivered the breakthrough Pakistan sought, dismissing opener Mahmudul Hasan Joy for a mere eight runs, with Mohammad Rizwan taking the catch. The commentary highlighted a critical perspective on Afridi's current form, contrasting with the historical significance of his wicket-taking achievements.

Match Context and Team Changes

The first Test against Bangladesh, part of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle, saw Pakistan captain Shan Masood win the toss and elect to bowl. Masood cited the visible grass on the Dhaka pitch as the reason for his decision. At the end of the opening session, Bangladesh had reached 101 for 2, with Mominul Haque and Najmul Hossain Shanto batting on 31 and 39 respectively. Pakistan's bowling attack for the match featured Shaheen Afridi, Hasan Ali, and Mohammad Abbas, with spinner Sajid Khan left out. The visitors were compelled to make late changes to their squad. Babar Azam experienced pain in his left knee on Thursday night, leading to Test debuts for Azan Awais and Abdullah Fazal. Bangladesh also opted for a three-seam attack, including Nahid Rana, Ebadot Hossain, and Taskin Ahmed, who was returning to the Test side. The series marks an opportunity for Pakistan to rebound after a disappointing 2-0 Test series defeat to Bangladesh in Rawalpindi during 2024.

Looking Ahead to the WTC Final

Shaheen Afridi has expressed his ambition for Pakistan to reach the World Test Championship final in the 2025-27 cycle. He stressed the importance of consistency in achieving this goal. The bowler's focus remains firmly on the ongoing contest and future aspirations for the team. His milestone achievement in Dhaka is a testament to his enduring talent and dedication to the longest format of the game. As the series progresses, Afridi will undoubtedly be a key figure for Pakistan as they aim to climb the WTC standings. The journey towards the WTC final is long, but Afridi's consistent performances provide a strong foundation for Pakistan's ambitions.

The bottom line

• Shaheen Afridi became the first Pakistani bowler to achieve 100 wickets in the World Test Championship.
• He reached this significant milestone during the first Test against Bangladesh in Dhaka.
• Afridi's achievement places him among the top 19 bowlers globally in WTC history.
• Commentator Ramiz Raja questioned Afridi's pace during the match, referring to him as a 'medium pacer'.
• The match is part of the 2025-27 World Test Championship cycle, with Pakistan aiming for consistency.
• Pakistan made late changes to their squad due to Babar Azam's knee injury, handing out Test debuts.