Shaheen Shah Afridi has become the third Pakistani cricketer to claim 100 wickets in T20 International (T20I) cricket. He achieved this feat during a match against South Africa in Durban on Monday, solidifying his status as one of Pakistan’s premier bowlers.Shaheen surpassed his father-in-law Shahid Afridi’s record of 97 wickets with his 98th dismissal. He then added two more wickets, reaching the coveted 100-wicket milestone.
In the game, Shaheen dismissed South African players Rassie van der Dussen, David Miller, and Nkaba Yomzi Peter, showcasing his lethal bowling prowess. His performance contributed significantly to Pakistan’s competitive efforts in the ongoing series.
Joining an Elite Club
Shaheen now stands alongside Pakistan’s T20I legends:
- Haris Rauf: 110 wickets (leading the list)
- Shadab Khan: 107 wickets
- Shahid Afridi: 97 wickets (previously held the record Shaheen surpassed)
South Africa Wins the First T20I
All-Round Performance from George Linde
South Africa secured an 11-run victory in the first T20I at Kingsmead, Durban. Spinner George Linde shone with both bat and ball, scoring 48 runs off 24 balls and taking four crucial wickets.
South Africa Sets a Tough Target
After choosing to bat first, South Africa posted a formidable total of 183-9 in their 20 overs. David Miller top-scored with a swashbuckling 82 off 40 balls, smashing eight fours and four sixes.
Pakistan’s Chase Falls Short
Despite captain Mohammad Rizwan anchoring the innings with 74 runs, Pakistan managed only 172-8, falling short of the target. Haris Rauf’s reprieve from a hat-trick ball highlighted Pakistan’s struggle to maintain the required run rate.
Upcoming Matches
The series now moves to Pretoria, where the second T20I will take place on Friday, followed by the third match on Saturday at the Wanderers in Johannesburg. A three-match ODI series is also scheduled for next week.
