Shaheen Shah Afridi is a Pakistani left-arm fast bowler known for his pace and swing, who has led Pakistan's bowling attack since the late 2010s.
Shaheen Shah Afridi was born on 6 April 2000 in Landi Kotal, in Pakistan's tribal region near the Khyber Pass, and made his international debut for Pakistan in 2018 at just 18, quickly developing into one of the most feared left-arm fast bowlers in world cricket. Shaheen, nicknamed "The Eagle," stands 6 feet 6 inches tall and generates significant pace and swing with the new ball, becoming renowned for his ability to strike early breakthroughs against opposing top orders in white-ball cricket. Shaheen delivered a series of memorable performances for Pakistan, including a dominant spell against India at the 2021 T20 World Cup, and has represented the Lahore Qalandars extensively in the Pakistan Super League alongside stints for franchises in England and Bangladesh. Shaheen is the son-in-law of Pakistani cricket legend Shahid Afridi, and has continued to be one of Pakistan's most important fast bowlers across formats, playing alongside his brother Riaz and cousin Yasir, part of a family with a deep connection to the sport.
Left-arm fast bowler and Pakistan's premier pace spearhead
How They Played
Afridi is a left-arm fast bowler who can swing the ball both ways with natural pace and bounce. He excels with the new ball, generating sharp movement and troubling batsmen with his ability to hit the seam consistently. His height and smooth bowling action allow him to extract extra bounce from most surfaces.
Lasting Impact
Afridi has emerged as one of the most promising fast bowlers in world cricket, leading Pakistan's bowling resurgence in the modern era.
Career Honours
- Pakistan Test and ODI captain
- ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year nominee
- Pakistan Super League Purple Cap winner
| Club | Period | Matches | Wickets |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lahore Qalandars | 2018–present | 62 | 87 |
| Hampshire County Cricket Club | 2021–2023 | — | — |
| Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club | 2022–2022 | — | — |