Shaheen Afridi Surpasses Mohammed Shami, Claims No.1 Spot

Shaheen Afridi Surpasses Mohammad Shami, Claims No.1 Spot

Known as one of modern cricket’s most dangerous fast bowlers, Shaheen showcased his class at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium.

Source : PTI

Pakistan began their three-match ODI series against West Indies on 8 August with a strong win, thanks largely to Shaheen Afridi’s fiery bowling.

His performance not only helped skipper Mohammad Rizwan’s side take a 1-0 lead but also saw him surpass India’s veteran pacer Mohammad Shami in a major ODI record.

Shaheen’s Impactful Spell

Known as one of modern cricket’s most dangerous fast bowlers, Shaheen showcased his class at the Brian Lara Cricket Stadium.

The left-arm quick claimed 4 wickets for 51 runs in his eight-over spell, maintaining an economy rate of just 6.87. His strikes were pivotal in keeping the Windies from posting a bigger total.

Shami's Strike Rate Record

With his latest performance, Shaheen Afridi now holds the best strike rate in ODI history among bowlers from full-member nations with a minimum of 100 wickets. The Pakistani star’s strike rate stands at 25.4, marginally better than Shami’s 25.8. Afridi also boasts a bowling average of 24.01, edging past the Indian pacer’s 24.05.

Pakistan Seal First ODI Win

Opting to bat first, West Indies posted 280 runs in 49 overs, with Evin Lewis top-scoring with 60. Pakistan chased down the target in 48.5 overs, losing five wickets along the way. Hasan Nawaz was adjudged Player of the Match for his quickfire 63 off 54 balls, sealing a perfect start for the visitors.

A composed, unbeaten 104-run stand between debutant Hasan Nawaz and Hussain Talat — playing only his second ODI — guided Pakistan to a five-wicket victory over West Indies, chasing down 281 with an over to spare. Despite some early jitters in the run chase, the pair’s calm approach ensured the visitors claimed a 1-0 advantage in the three-match series.

Earlier, West Indies posted 280, built on three solid half-centuries. However, Pakistan’s spinners kept the scoring in check during the middle overs, restricting the hosts from pushing past a competitive total. Shaheen Shah Afridi (4/51) and Naseem Shah (3/55) then delivered crucial blows in the final stages, wrapping up the innings and setting the stage for the chase.