Shaheen Shah Afridi is a Pakistani international cricketer and fast bowling leader. A left-handed lower-order batter and left-arm fast bowler, he plays for the Pakistan national cricket team and has captained Pakistan in both ODI and T20I formats. Afridi is known for his height, pace, swing, and ability to take wickets with the new ball, making him one of Pakistan’s most impactful seam bowlers since his international debut in 2018.
Afridi made his T20I debut in April 2018, ODI debut in September 2018, and Test debut in December 2018. Quickly establishing himself as a frontline bowler, he has been central to Pakistan’s bowling attack across formats. In 2021, he was named ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year, becoming the first Pakistani recipient of the Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy. He became Pakistan’s ODI captain in October 2025, reflecting his leadership role within the team.
Afridi has featured in multiple ICC events and major series, consistently contributing with key wickets. His performances in world tournaments, including the 2019 Cricket World Cup, highlighted his ability to perform on big stages.
Afridi began his professional career in domestic and first-class cricket before breaking into Pakistan’s national setup. In the Pakistan Super League (PSL), he has been a key bowler and captain for Lahore Qalandars, leading them to three championships (2022, 2023, 2025), becoming the first captain to achieve that milestone.
In franchise cricket, Afridi has played in various T20 leagues, including Hampshire , Middlesex, and Brisbane Heat, showcasing adaptability across conditions.
Standing at 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in), Afridi uses his height and length to generate bounce and movement, particularly in early overs. He combines swing and seam with disciplined lines to trouble top order batsmen. His left-arm angle and ability to strike with the new ball make him a leading wicket-taker for Pakistan in both Tests and limited overs.
He has recorded multiple match-defining spells, including six-wicket hauls and pivotal performance figures at international level. His pace, control, and tactical variation make him one of the standout seam bowlers of his generation.
Shaheen Shah Afridi is a leading fast bowler and captain for Pakistan, known for his height, left-arm pace, and wicket-taking ability. With strong performances across Tests, ODIs, and T20Is, and leadership roles at national and franchise level, he is regarded as one of Pakistan’s most influential cricketers in the modern era.