Naseem Shah is a Pakistani fast bowler who became the youngest player to take a Test hat-trick, against Bangladesh in 2020.
Naseem Shah was born on 15 February 2003 in Mayar, Lower Dir, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, and developed rapidly into one of the most exciting fast-bowling prospects in world cricket, making his Test debut against Australia in 2019 at just 16 years old. Naseem, nicknamed "Lillee Shah" for his bowling style reminiscent of Australian great Dennis Lillee, delivered a maiden Test five-wicket haul against Bangladesh in 2021, becoming one of the youngest bowlers in history to achieve the feat. Naseem made his ODI and T20I debuts in 2022, and has continued to develop into a key member of Pakistan's fast-bowling attack across all formats, playing extensively in the Pakistan Super League for franchises including Quetta Gladiators and Islamabad United. Naseem has represented Pakistan alongside his brothers, Hunain and Ubaid, who have also pursued cricket, and continues to be regarded as one of the most naturally talented young fast bowlers to emerge from Pakistan's Khyber Pakhtunkhwa region in recent years.
Youngest bowler to take a Test hat-trick
How They Played
Shah is a right-arm fast bowler known for his ability to generate good pace and swing the ball both ways. He possesses a smooth bowling action and can consistently bowl at speeds exceeding 140 km/h, with the ability to extract bounce from most surfaces.
Lasting Impact
Shah represents the new generation of Pakistani fast bowlers and has already shown the potential to become a long-term cornerstone of Pakistan's bowling attack.
Career Honours
- none major
| Club | Period | Matches | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Karachi Kings | 2020–2022 | 22 | 28 |
| Peshawar Zalmi | 2023–2024 | 18 | 24 |
| Central Punjab | 2019–2024 | — | — |
| Quetta Gladiators | 2019–2019 | — | — |