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In a high-voltage clash between India and Pakistan at the ongoing Asia Cup, left-arm pacer, Shaheen Afridi, showcased a stellar performance, leaving cricket fans on the edge of their seats. Afridi’s brilliant four-wicket haul for 35 runs in his allotted 10 overs, which included two maidens, helped Pakistan gain the upper hand against India at the Pallekele International Cricket Stadium.
From the very beginning, Afridi looked to be in tremendous form as he swiftly dismissed the formidable duo of Rohit Sharma and Virat Kohli during the initial phase of the game, putting the Indian team in a precarious position. His fiery pace and precision proved to be a nightmare for the Indian batters.
Afridi’s dominance did not stop there. In his second spell, he claimed the prized scalps of Ravindra Jadeja and Hardik Pandya, further destabilizing the Indian batting lineup. The performance left cricket pundits and fans in awe of the 23-year-old’s remarkable skills.
Also WATCH: Virat Kohli falls victim to Shaheen Afridi’s searing delivery during India vs Pakistan clash in Asia Cup 2023
Afridi reveals his favourite wicket and praises fellow bowlers
Following the innings, Afridi was asked about his favourite wicket in the match. While acknowledging the importance of both Rohit and Kohli’s dismissals, he eventually chose the dismissal of the Indian skipper Rohit as his personal favourite. Afridi stated, “That was our plan with the new ball. I think both (Virat and Rohit) were crucial wickets, every batter is the same for me. But I think I liked Rohit’s wicket better.”
Afridi also praised his fellow bowlers for executing their plans effectively, especially Naseem Shah, who bowled consistently at a blistering pace of 150 kilometres per hour. Afridi noted that the new ball had some swing and seam, but the conditions became more batsman-friendly as the ball aged, making it easier to score runs.
“The plans by our fast bowlers worked. Naseem is bowling at 150 kph, really happy with that, he’s really fast. The new ball might swing and seam, but nothing much after that. It will be easier to score runs once the ball gets old (in the run chase),” added Afridi.
Kishan and Pandya’s heroics before rain played spoilsport
Despite Pakistan’s exceptional bowling performance, Team India managed to post a competitive total of 266 runs, largely due to the partnership between Kishan and Hardik. Their remarkable stand of 138 runs off 140 balls laid a strong foundation for India’s innings. Kishan played an explosive knock, scoring 82 runs off 81 deliveries, while Hardik contributed with 87 runs off 90 balls.
However, persistent rain prevented Pakistan from beginning their innings, ultimately leading to no-result in this highly anticipated clash between the two cricketing giants.
