Naseem Shah: Youngest Cricketer To Make Test Debut In Australia

Naseem also became the third-youngest fast bowler to debut in Test cricket history

Sixteen-year-old Pakistani pacer Naseem Shah scripted history on Thursday as he took the field in the first Test against Australia at Gabba. He became the youngest cricketer to make Test debut on the Aussie soil, breaking the record of former Australia captain Ian Craig. Naseem received his Test cap at the age of 16 years and 279 days. Craig made his Test debut at the age of 17 against South Africa at the MCG in 1953.

A proud moment for Naseem Shah to receive his Test cap at the hands of @waqyounis99. #AUSvPAK pic.twitter.com/XCvV8YUx1A

— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 20, 2019

It was an emotional moment for the teenager as he kissed the cap after receiving it from former pace legend and current bowling coach Waqar Younis. He kissed his cap, hugged his teammates and then wiped off his tears.

“What amazing scenes. An emotional time." 👏

Naseem Shah bursts into tears after receiving first Test cap from Pakistan great Waqar Younis. 👉 https://t.co/suIMcGL2cy pic.twitter.com/FxZQPzjpVP — Fox Cricket (@FoxCricket) November 20, 2019

Naseem also became the third-youngest fast bowler to debut in Test cricket history. He is just behind Bangladesh's Mohammad Sharif (3rd) and countryman Aaqib Javed (4th) for the claim of the youngest fast bowler to debut in the Test arena. Naseem was included in the playing XI for the Gabba Test following his fiery spell at Perth against Australia A last week. Extracting extra bounce from the Perth wicket, he got the wicket of Marcus Harris. The teenager tormented Usman Khawaja with short balls and almost got his wicket during the testing spell. The pacer lost his mother while he was on the Australian tour. After consulting his family, he chose not to return home. Interestingly, he has played only seven first-class matches in which he has scalped 27 wickets at an average of 16.66. Naseem also became the ninth youngest debutant in Test cricket. Pakistan's Hasan Raza, who made his debut in 1996 aged 14 years and 227 days, is the youngest.