Shaheen’s first-ball magic continues, becomes The Hundred’s highest wicket-taker
Pakistan pacer, Shaheen Afridi, showcased his bowling mastery once again for Welsh Fire during a match against the Oval Invincibles in The Hundred Men’s 2023 competition.
After winning the toss and electing to bat first, Welsh Fire posted a total of 138 runs after losing just six wickets in the first innings.
As the Invincibles began their chase, Shaheen showcased his brilliance once more by swiftly dismissing Jason Roy (0) on the opening delivery of the second innings, intensifying the pressure on the opposing team.
It is worth noting that Afridi has taken 42 wickets in the first over of the innings in T20s (which also includes the Hundred), the most by any bowler in the world since his debut in 2018.
The left-arm pacer continued his impressive performance by claiming another key wicket at a crucial juncture. He used a slower delivery to remove Jordan Cox, who had managed to accumulate 51 runs from 43 balls.
The 23-year-old delivered a remarkable bowling performance for his team, as he bowled 20 deliveries, conceded only 22 runs, and picked up two wickets at an economy rate of 1.10 runs per ball (RPB).
Despite Shaheen and Rauf’s impressive bowling, Invicibles managed to tie the match in a final-ball thriller courtesy of an unbeaten 38-run innings from Tom Curran.
Afridi is currently the leading wicket-taker in the ongoing The Hundred 2023 after taking five wickets in three matches.