KOLKATA: Pakistan ace bowler Shaheen Afridi wants to play fearless cricket like former captain Shahid Afridi, who is also his father-in-law.
The 24-year-old today added another feather to his cap when he became the quickest fast-bowler to complete 100 wickets in ODIs during the ICC Men’s World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh.
The left-handed bowler achieved the feat in 51 matches, overtaking Australia’s Mitchell Starc who bagged this many wickets in 52 outings.
Pakistan eventually won the game by seven wickets after batters chased down the 205-run target.
"Records are meant to be broken, and it's a happy occasion that we've set records for Pakistan," Shaheen said after the game.
Shaheen Afridi revealed he has aspirations to play cricket fearlessly like Shahid Afridi.
"Shahid Afridi always gives us tips; he is my hero. My effort is to play cricket like him," he said.
Regarding the game, Shaheen said they are pleased to win the game against Bangladesh and the side is eyeing for the semi-final spot.
"We still aim to finish in the top four. Our effort today was to finish the match quickly and improve the net run-rate," he stated.
Shaheen also reflected on the last four games Pakistan lost in the competition.
"We didn't perform well in the last few matches as a team; there were some costly errors. Some catches were dropped, and better fielding could have led to better results," he added.
"We are still in the tournament, and we will try to do well," he assured.
Meanwhile, Shaheen also praised his fellow pacers, Mohammad Wasim Jr. and Haris Rauf.
"Mohammad Wasim bowled really well. Haris Rauf plays an important role in the white-ball team. Bowlers like Lockie Ferguson are also conceding runs, pacy bowlers go for runs here. Haris is working hard, has taken wickets, and we hope he'll improve even more," he concluded.
Faizan Lakhani Faizan Lakhani is Deputy Editor (Sports) at Geo News.- Shaheen Afridi