Shaheen Afridi Praised as Deadliest Bowler by Finch
Shaheen Afridi Australian cricket legend and former T20 World Cup–winning captain Aaron Finch has heaped high praise on Pakistan’s premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, calling him one of the most dangerous and destructive bowlers in modern cricket. Finch’s remarks came during a Big Bash League (BBL) podcast, where he discussed overseas talent and the global rise of Pakistani cricketers.
Finch highlighted that Shaheen Afridi, when in rhythm, can rip through any batting lineup, stressing how Pakistan’s left-arm speedster brings a unique threat with his swing, pace, and ability to strike early. His glowing comments reflect the respect Shaheen commands worldwide — not just from fans, but from the world’s finest cricketers.
Shaheen Afridi : Finch: “Shaheen Can Tear a Batting Lineup Apart”
Speaking passionately about Shaheen, Finch said:
“Shaheen Shah Afridi can tear a batting lineup apart when he gets it right.”
This comment reflects what cricket followers know well: Shaheen is a match-winner on his day. His trademark inswinging yorkers, sharp bouncers, and wicket-taking ability with the new ball make him a nightmare for top-order batters.
Shaheen, who will represent Brisbane Heat in BBL 15, is one of the seven Pakistani stars lighting up Australia’s biggest T20 tournament this season.
Finch added that the inclusion of Pakistani players elevates the competition’s intensity, giving local Australian talent the chance to share dressing rooms, learn, and grow alongside world-class cricketers.
Read Also Here: Pakistan defeated Bangladesh in the U19 Women’s T20 series
Shaheen Afridi : Praise for Babar Azam: “Nearly Impossible to Get Him Out”
Finch didn’t stop at Shaheen. He went on to praise Pakistan’s all-format batting sensation Babar Azam, recalling their battles during Australia’s series in Pakistan.
“I played against Babar in Pakistan, and it was almost impossible to get him out.”
He further acknowledged that while Babar has had a quieter run recently, he remains one of the best batters in the world, capable of dominating any bowling attack.
Such recognition from a player like Finch highlights Babar’s global reputation and influence on world cricket.
Finch on Rizwan: “Never Shuts Up Behind the Stumps”
Finch subtly joked about Mohammad Rizwan’s constant chatter behind the stumps while also admiring his skill and contribution to the game.
“Mohammad Rizwan never shuts up behind the stumps, but seriously talented.”
Rizwan’s high energy, sharp keeping, and aggressive batting have made him one of Pakistan’s most reliable performers in T20 cricket.
“They’re Global Superstars” — Pakistani Players in BBL
Finch concluded by praising the collective value that Pakistani players bring to T20 leagues worldwide:
“They’re not just Pakistan players, they’re Pakistan superstars, they’re global superstars.”
He emphasized that their presence strengthens the competition, improves quality, and promotes cross-cultural cricketing development — all vital for the sport’s global evolution.
Shaheen Afridi : Pakistani Players in BBL 15
Here is the full list of Pakistani stars featuring this season:
- Shaheen Shah Afridi — Brisbane Heat
- Haris Rauf — Melbourne Stars
- Shadab Khan — Sydney Thunder
- Hasan Ali — Adelaide Strikers
- Mohammad Rizwan — Melbourne Renegades
- Babar Azam — Sydney Sixers
- Usama Mir — Melbourne Renegades
Their participation is one of the key storylines heading into BBL 15, making it one of the most anticipated seasons in recent years.
Impact of Shaheen Afridi on Global T20 Leagues
Shaheen’s meteoric rise from a tall, promising U19 pacer to one of cricket’s most feared bowlers is remarkable. His early breakthroughs in PSL, deadly new-ball spells for Pakistan, and clutch performances in ICC events have cemented his status as a premier fast bowler.
- Why Shaheen Is So Fearsome
- Deadly inswing with the new ball
- Accurate yorkers in death overs
- Ability to pick wickets early and often
- High pace and steep bounce due to height
- Fearless attitude in big matches
His unforgettable spell against India in the 2021 T20 World Cup — dismissing Rohit Sharma and KL Rahul — is still considered one of the greatest new-ball spells in tournament history.
As he enters BBL 15, expectations are high. Fans and analysts believe he could replicate the same impact in Australia’s premier league.
Historical Context: Pakistani Fast Bowlers in Australia
The admiration for Pakistani fast bowlers in Australia is nothing new. Historically:
- Wasim Akram dominated during tours and in county cricket.
- Waqar Younis stunned Australian batters with reverse swing.
- Shoaib Akhtar’s pace left Australian crowds in awe.
- Mohammad Asif, despite controversies, was praised for his accuracy.
- Haris Rauf became a BBL superstar with Melbourne Stars.
Now, Shaheen Afridi continues that legacy, carrying Pakistan’s rich tradition of producing elite fast bowlers.
Australian batters have always respected Pakistani pace, and Finch’s praise shows how that tradition continues.
For the original reference and full story on Pakistani players in BBL, visit:
🔗 https://www.cricket.com.au
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FAQs
1. Why did Aaron Finch praise Shaheen Afridi?
Finch highlighted Shaheen’s ability to destroy batting lineups with pace and swing, calling him one of the most dangerous fast bowlers.
2. Which BBL team is Shaheen Afridi playing for?
Shaheen is representing Brisbane Heat in BBL 15.
3. Did Finch also praise Babar Azam?
Yes, Finch said it was almost impossible to get Babar out when they played against him in Pakistan.
4. How many Pakistani players are in BBL 15?
A total of seven Pakistani players are participating this season.
5. Why are Pakistani players so popular in global leagues?
Their skill, discipline, and match-winning abilities make them high-impact performers in T20 competitions worldwide.
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