Pakistan’s left-arm fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has etched his name in history by breaking the record for the most wickets taken by a Pakistani bowler against South Africa in international cricket. Afridi surpassed the iconic Wasim Akram’s 48 wickets after a stellar performance in the second ODI, where he claimed four wickets to reach the 50-wicket milestone in just 27 innings.
A Record-Breaking Spell
Afridi entered the series needing four wickets to surpass Akram’s record, having already taken 45 wickets in 25 innings against South Africa. In the second ODI, Afridi delivered a game-changing spell when South Africa’s Heinrich Klaasen and David Miller were forging a strong fifth-wicket partnership while chasing Pakistan’s daunting target of 330 runs.
Afridi dismantled the opposition lineup with precision:
- David Miller: Dismissed with a catch behind the stumps.
- Marco Jansen: Bowled out with a stunning toe-crushing delivery.
- Andile Phehlukwayo: Trapped LBW in front of the stumps.
- Kwena Maphaka: Caught behind to complete the spell.
Elite Pakistani Bowlers Against South Africa
Afridi’s remarkable achievement places him among Pakistan’s all-time top bowlers against South Africa. He is now third on the list:
- Waqar Younis: 82 wickets in 43 innings.
- Saeed Ajmal: 65 wickets in 36 innings.
- Shaheen Afridi: 50 wickets in 27 innings.
- Wasim Akram: 48 wickets in 31 innings.
A Rising Star in Pakistan Cricket
Afridi’s exceptional talent and consistent performances continue to reinforce his position as one of Pakistan’s premier bowlers, following in the footsteps of the legendary pacers who have dominated international cricket.
