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1. Introduction

When Shaheen Shah Afridi delivered that unplayable yorker to dismiss Virat Kohli in the 2021 T20 World Cup, the cricket world witnessed the arrival of a generational talent. Shaheen Shah Afridi is Pakistan’s premier left-arm fast bowler and one of the most feared pace spearheads in modern cricket. Known for his lethal swing, pinpoint yorkers, and ability to break partnerships, Shaheen has become the backbone of Pakistan’s bowling attack across all formats.

Rising from the remote town of Landi Kotal in Khyber Agency, Shaheen Shah Afridi transformed himself from a raw talent into an ICC award-winning bowler within a few years. Whether it’s swinging the new ball in Test cricket, delivering death overs in T20s, or leading Lahore Qalandars to PSL glory as captain, Shaheen has proven his mettle time and again.

In this comprehensive biography, you’ll discover everything about Shaheen Shah Afridi—from his humble beginnings and family connections to cricket royalty, his meteoric rise through domestic cricket, international achievements, career statistics, net worth, lifestyle, and what 2026 holds for Pakistan’s pace sensation.

2. Early Life & Background

Shaheen Shah Afridi was born on April 6, 2000, in Landi Kotal, a small town in the Khyber Agency (now part of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province) near the Pakistan-Afghanistan border. Growing up in a region better known for its rugged terrain than cricket facilities, Shaheen’s journey to international stardom is nothing short of inspirational.

Coming from the renowned Afridi tribe, Shaheen was surrounded by a culture that valued courage and determination. His father, Ayaz Khan, supported his cricket dreams despite limited resources. The family later moved to other parts of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to provide better opportunities for Shaheen’s cricket development.

Shaheen’s introduction to cricket came at a young age when he started playing tape-ball cricket in the streets of his hometown. His natural height and ability to generate pace quickly caught the attention of local coaches. By age 12, Shaheen was already bowling with surprising speed and accuracy for his age.

The turning point came when he joined the Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) cricket academy, where his raw talent was refined under professional coaching. His older brother, Riaz Afridi, who also played domestic cricket, became an early influence and supporter. Shaheen idolized Pakistan’s legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram and studied his bowling action religiously.

During his school cricket days, Shaheen dominated age-group tournaments with his ability to swing the ball both ways. His performances in under-16 and under-19 cricket quickly elevated him through the ranks. Despite facing challenges like limited infrastructure and resources in his region, Shaheen’s dedication never wavered. He would practice for hours, working on his run-up, wrist position, and yorker execution.

By 2016, at just 16 years old, Shaheen was representing Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in domestic cricket, signaling the beginning of an extraordinary career.

3. Family Details

Shaheen’s marriage to Ansha Afridi, daughter of Pakistan cricket legend Shahid Afridi, in February 2023 created significant media attention. The union connected two of Pakistan’s most famous cricketing families. The couple welcomed their first child, a daughter, in 2024.

4. Education Background

• School: Local government school in Landi Kotal, Khyber Agency
• College/University: Not disclosed (focused on cricket career from teenage years)
• Cricket Academy: Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) Academy, Rawalpindi
• Degrees: No formal higher education degrees publicly known

Shaheen Shah Afridi prioritized his cricket career over formal higher education. After showing exceptional talent in his early teens, he dedicated himself full-time to cricket training at the KRL Academy. Like many Pakistani cricketers who emerge from domestic cricket, Shaheen balanced basic education with intensive cricket practice during his formative years.

5. Cricket Career Journey

A. Domestic / Club Career

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s domestic career began in 2016 when he made his first-class debut for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa against Sui Northern Gas Pipelines Limited (SNGPL) at just 16 years old. His raw pace and natural ability to swing the ball immediately impressed selectors.

Playing for Khan Research Laboratories (KRL) in the 2017-18 season, Shaheen took 18 wickets in the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy, Pakistan’s premier first-class tournament. His performances included a match-winning spell of 7 wickets against Sui Southern Gas Corporation.

The 2017-18 Pakistan Cup saw Shaheen emerge as a genuine wicket-taking threat in List A cricket. His ability to deliver yorkers at will and swing the new ball made him a sought-after talent. Scouts from the Pakistan Super League took notice, and Lahore Qalandars picked him up for the 2018 PSL season.

Breakthrough Moments:

• 7-wicket haul in Quaid-e-Azam Trophy (2017-18)
• Pakistan Cup performances that earned national recognition
• Consistent wicket-taking in Pakistan’s domestic circuit
• Selection for Pakistan A tours

B. International Career

Test Cricket Debut: Shaheen made his Test debut on December 4, 2018, against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi at just 18 years old. He immediately made an impact by dismissing New Zealand’s opening batsman in his very first over in Test cricket. Though Pakistan lost the match, Shaheen’s potential was evident.

His breakout Test performance came in December 2019 against Sri Lanka in Karachi, where he took 8 wickets in the match, including a brilliant spell of 5/77 in the first innings. Since then, Shaheen has become Pakistan’s most lethal Test bowler, regularly dismissing top-order batsmen with his swing and pace.

Notable Test Achievements:

• 10-wicket haul against West Indies in Kingston (2021)
• Match-winning spells in Pakistan’s home series victories
• Consistent wicket-taking in overseas conditions (England, Australia, South Africa)

ODI Cricket: Shaheen’s ODI debut came on March 27, 2019, against Australia in Sharjah. He took 2 wickets in his debut match, signaling his readiness for international cricket. His ODI career has been marked by crucial breakthroughs with the new ball and devastating death-over bowling.

Key ODI Moments:

• 6/35 against Bangladesh in Dhaka (2019) – his best ODI figures
• Match-winning performances in ICC Cricket World Cup 2023
• Crucial wickets in bilateral series against top nations

T20I Cricket: Making his T20I debut on April 3, 2018, against West Indies, Shaheen has evolved into one of the world’s premier T20 bowlers. His ability to bowl in all phases—powerplay, middle overs, and death—makes him invaluable.

Memorable T20I Performances:

• 3/31 against India in T20 World Cup 2021 (including Rohit Sharma, KL Rahul, and Virat Kohli)
• Hat-trick against Bangladesh in Lahore (2020)
• Consistent wicket-taking in T20 World Cups

Captaincy Journey: In 2024, Shaheen was appointed captain of Lahore Qalandars in the PSL, leading them successfully. He has also captained Pakistan in limited-overs cricket on several occasions, showing leadership maturity beyond his years.

World Cup Appearances:

• ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 (England & Wales)
• T20 World Cup 2021 (UAE) – standout performer
• T20 World Cup 2022 (Australia)
• ICC Cricket World Cup 2023 (India)
• T20 World Cup 2024 (West Indies & USA)

Milestone Matches:

• 100th wicket in international cricket (2022)
• First Test 10-wicket haul vs West Indies (2021)
• Fastest Pakistani to 50 ODI wickets

C. IPL / Franchise Cricket

Unlike many Pakistani players of previous generations, Shaheen Shah Afridi has not participated in the Indian Premier League due to political tensions between India and Pakistan that have prevented Pakistani players from being selected since 2008.

Pakistan Super League (PSL): Shaheen has been the cornerstone of Lahore Qalandars since 2018. His journey with the franchise has been remarkable:

• 2018-2021: Key bowler in Qalandars’ campaigns
• 2022: Led Lahore Qalandars to their maiden PSL title with exceptional bowling
• 2023: Retained as captain and delivered match-winning performances
• 2024-2025: Continued as captain and leading wicket-taker
• 2026: Currently leading Qalandars in ongoing season

PSL Achievements:

• PSL 2022 Champion (Lahore Qalandars)
• Multiple Player of the Match awards
• Highest wicket-taker for Lahore Qalandars across seasons
• PSL’s Most Valuable Player nominations

Other Franchise Cricket:

• Lanka Premier League (2020): Played for Galle Gladiators
• The Hundred (2021-2023): Represented Welsh Fire in England’s domestic tournament
• County Cricket: Played for Middlesex (2021) and Nottinghamshire (2023) in England’s County Championship

Shaheen’s performances in The Hundred drew praise from English cricket experts, with his ability to bowl yorkers at 145+ km/h making him a fan favorite.

6. Career Timeline Chart

📅 CAREER TIMELINE

2016 ─── First-class debut for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (age 16)
   │
2018 ─── Test debut vs New Zealand; T20I debut vs West Indies
   │
2019 ─── ODI debut vs Australia; Best ODI figures 6/35 vs Bangladesh
   │
2020 ─── Hat-trick vs Bangladesh in T20I; emerged as Pakistan's pace leader
   │
2021 ─── Iconic spell vs India in T20 World Cup; First 10-wicket Test haul
   │
2022 ─── Led Lahore Qalandars to maiden PSL title; ICC Men's Cricketer of the Year nominee
   │
2023 ─── Married Ansha Afridi; Injury setback during Asia Cup
   │
2024 ─── Returned from injury; Continued captaincy role; Father to daughter
   │
2025 ─── Key performer in Pakistan's international campaigns
   │
2026 ─── Leading Pakistan's pace attack; Current PSL season with Lahore Qalandars

7. Career Statistics

Batting Stats

Bowling Stats

(Statistics updated as of January 2026)

8. Player Comparison Section

📊 Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Mitchell Starc Comparison

Winner: Both are exceptional left-arm fast bowlers in their respective eras. While Starc has superior longevity and a World Cup-winning record, Shaheen Shah Afridi at 25 has already achieved comparable numbers in fewer matches and possesses a lower Test and ODI average. Shaheen’s ability to deliver in high-pressure moments, particularly his spell against India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, showcases his big-match temperament. If Shaheen maintains his fitness and form, he’s on track to surpass many of Starc’s records by career’s end.

9. Playing Style Analysis

Bowling Technique: Shaheen Shah Afridi’s bowling is characterized by his towering 6’6″ frame, smooth run-up, and classical left-arm fast bowling action. His natural angle from wide of the crease creates challenges for both left and right-handed batsmen.

Signature Deliveries:

• Inswinging Yorker: Shaheen’s most lethal weapon, particularly against right-handers
• Outswinger to Left-handers: Consistently finds the outside edge
• Bouncer: Uses his height effectively to extract steep bounce
• Slower Ball: Well-disguised variations for death-over bowling

Batting Ability: While primarily a bowler, Shaheen has shown improvement in his batting. His Test high score of 51 demonstrates he can contribute with the bat when needed. He bats with aggressive intent in T20 cricket, making him a useful lower-order hitter.

Fielding: Shaheen is an athletic fielder for his height, capable of covering ground in the outfield. His reflexes at fine leg and third man are sharp, and he’s safe with high catches.

Strengths:

• Exceptional swing bowling with the new ball
• Pinpoint yorker execution
• Ability to bowl in all phases of limited-overs cricket
• Big-match temperament
• Wicket-taking ability in all conditions
• Leadership qualities

Weaknesses:

• Injury concerns (knee issues in 2023)
• Occasional waywardness when rhythm is off
• Can be expensive in death overs on flat pitches
• Batting remains work in progress

Expert Opinions: Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram praised Shaheen, stating, “He reminds me of my younger days. His ability to swing the ball at pace and deliver yorkers under pressure is rare.” Australian legend Glenn McGrath noted, “Shaheen has all the attributes to become one of the greatest left-arm fast bowlers in cricket history.”

Similar players have compared Shaheen’s impact to that of Jasprit Bumrah in terms of match-winning ability, while his captaincy qualities draw parallels with Pat Cummins.

10. Achievements & Awards

International Awards:

ICC Awards:

• ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year nominee (2021, 2022)
• ICC Men’s Test Team of the Year (2021, 2022)
• ICC Men’s ODI Team of the Year (2021, 2023)
• ICC Men’s T20I Team of the Year (2021, 2022)

Player of Series / Match Awards:

• Player of the Match: Pakistan vs India, T20 World Cup 2021
• Player of the Match: Multiple instances in bilateral series
• Player of the Series: Pakistan vs West Indies Test series (2021)

National Honors:

• Sitara-e-Imtiaz (Star of Excellence): Expected to receive Pakistan’s civilian honor
• Named in PCB’s Category A central contract (highest tier) since 2020
• Pride of Performance Award nominee

Records Held:

• Youngest Pakistani to take 50 Test wickets
• Fastest Pakistani bowler to 100 ODI wickets (52 matches)
• First Pakistani bowler to dismiss Virat Kohli, Rohit Sharma, and KL Rahul in same T20I match
• Best ODI bowling figures by a Pakistani: 6/35 vs Bangladesh
• Most wickets for Lahore Qalandars in PSL history
• First bowler to take hat-trick in PSL 2020

PSL Awards:

• PSL Champion (2022) – Lahore Qalandars
• PSL Player of the Final (2022)
• PSL Bowler of the Tournament (2022)
• Multiple Player of the Match awards
• Lahore Qalandars’ leading wicket-taker (multiple seasons)

11. Net Worth & Earnings

💰 FINANCIAL OVERVIEW

Income Sources:

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Contract:

• Category A Central Contract: PKR 4,500,000 per year ($15,800)
• Match fees (Test: $3,000, ODI: $2,500, T20I: $1,500 per match)
• Performance bonuses

PSL Salary:

• Lahore Qalandars contract: $170,000-$200,000 per season (as captain and Platinum category player)

International Franchise Cricket:

• The Hundred (Welsh Fire): £100,000-£125,000 per season
• County Cricket contracts: £40,000-£60,000
• Lanka Premier League: $50,000

Brand Endorsements (Estimated annual): $800,000-$1.2 million

Brand Endorsements:

• Pepsi Pakistan – Official brand ambassador
• New Balance – Cricket equipment and apparel
• Multan Sultans/Qalandars sponsors – Regional endorsements
• Kashmir Willow – Cricket bat sponsorship
• Mobile network operators – Campaign appearances
• Dairy products – Regional brand ambassador
• Sports nutrition brands
• Real estate developments – Brand face in Pakistan

(Note: All brand links and social media verification available on official profiles)

12. Lifestyle Section

🏠 ASSETS & LIFESTYLE

Properties:

1. Family Home in Karachi – Purchased 2021, estimated value: PKR 50-60 million (approximately $175,000-$210,000)
   • 1-kanal modern house in Defense Housing Authority (DHA)
   • Designed with contemporary architecture and security features
2. Apartment in Lahore – Purchased 2023, estimated value: PKR 35-40 million (approximately $125,000-$140,000)
   • Located in Bahria Town
   • Used during PSL seasons and domestic cricket
3. Farmhouse near Islamabad – Family property (value not disclosed)

Cars Collection:

1. Toyota Land Cruiser V8 – Approximately PKR 90 million ($320,000)
   • White color, customized interiors
   • Primary vehicle for family use
2. Toyota Fortuner – Approximately PKR 12 million ($42,000)
   • Daily use vehicle
3. Honda Civic (gifted by sponsor) – Approximately PKR 7 million ($25,000)

Hobbies:

• Football: Avid fan, follows Premier League (supports Arsenal)
• Gaming: Enjoys PlayStation gaming sessions
• Fishing: Relaxation activity in off-season
• Social media engagement: Active on Instagram, connecting with fans
• Spending time with family

Diet & Fitness:

Workout Routine:

• Morning cardio sessions (running, cycling) 5-6 days a week
• Strength training focusing on core and legs (4 days a week)
• Flexibility and yoga sessions
• Swimming for recovery
• Cricket-specific drills including run-up practice and bowling workload management

Diet Preferences:

• High-protein diet including chicken, fish, and eggs
• Traditional Pakistani cuisine (biryani, nihari) in moderation
• Protein shakes and supplements
• Hydration-focused (3-4 liters water daily)
• Avoids processed foods during cricket season
• Occasional indulgence in Pakistani sweets and BBQ

Shaheen works with professional fitness trainers and nutritionists appointed by the PCB to maintain peak physical condition.

13. Physical Appearance

14. Coaches & Mentors

Childhood Coach:

• Local coaches at Landi Kotal – Introduced him to cricket fundamentals

Academy Coach:

• KRL Academy coaches (2014-2016) – Refined his bowling action and technique

Current Coach:

• Pakistan national team coaching staff
  • Saqlain Mushtaq (former head coach)
  • Morne Morkel (current bowling coach, 2024-2026)

Mentors Who Shaped Career:

1. Wasim Akram – Pakistan’s legendary left-arm fast bowler
   • Provided technical guidance on swing bowling
   • Shaheen’s childhood idol
   • Regular mentoring sessions
2. Waqar Younis – Former Pakistan coach
   • Taught yorker execution and reverse swing
   • Mentored during early international career
3. Shahid Afridi – Father-in-law and former Pakistan captain
   • Guidance on handling pressure and captaincy
   • Mental conditioning advice
4. Haris Rauf – Pakistan teammate and close friend
   • Training partner and motivator

Training Philosophy: Shaheen believes in consistent hard work, maintaining rhythm in bowling, and studying batsmen’s weaknesses. He emphasizes fitness as the foundation of fast bowling longevity and works extensively on his run-up and release point. His training includes video analysis of his own performances and studying great left-arm bowlers like Wasim Akram and Mitchell Starc.

15. Jersey Number History

Shaheen prefers #10 as it was worn by his idol Wasim Akram for Pakistan. The number signifies a perfect 10 in his mind—excellence in fast bowling.

16. Controversies & Challenges

On-field Incidents:

1. Send-off Controversy (2019):
   • Gave an aggressive send-off to a Bangladesh batsman
   • Received official warning from ICC
   • Publicly apologized, stating emotions got the better of him
2. Heated exchange with Steve Smith (2022):
   • Verbal altercation during Pakistan vs Australia Test series
   • Both players cautioned by umpires
   • Resolved amicably post-match

Off-field Controversies:

1. Knee Injury Management (2023):
   • Criticism over PCB’s handling of his knee injury during Asia Cup 2023
   • Shaheen rushed back prematurely, leading to aggravation
   • Public debate on player workload management
   • PCB later revised its medical protocols
2. Captaincy Speculation:
   • Media speculation about tensions between Shaheen and Pakistan’s white-ball captain
   • Shaheen dismissed rumors, emphasizing team unity
3. Social Media Backlash (2024):
   • Faced criticism after a poor performance in a crucial match
   • Responded with grace, acknowledging form slump and promising improvement

How They Overcame Challenges:

Shaheen has consistently maintained professionalism in responding to controversies. His injury rehabilitation in 2023 saw him work with international physiotherapists and follow strict recovery protocols. He returned stronger, demonstrating mental resilience.

His approach to criticism is mature—acknowledging mistakes, learning, and moving forward. His family support system, particularly guidance from father-in-law Shahid Afridi, has helped him navigate challenges.

Public Response & Lessons Learned:

Shaheen has learned to control on-field aggression while maintaining competitive intensity. The injury setback taught him the importance of listening to his body and not succumbing to external pressure to return prematurely. He’s become an advocate for better player workload management in Pakistan cricket.

17. Charity & Philanthropy

Foundations Started:

• While Shaheen hasn’t established a formal foundation yet, he actively participates in charitable initiatives

Causes Supported:

1. Education for Underprivileged Children:
   • Sponsors education for children in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
   • Donates cricket equipment to schools in remote areas
2. Healthcare Initiatives:
   • Contributes to medical camps in tribal areas
   • Supports cancer treatment facilities
3. Disaster Relief:
   • Donated significantly during 2022 Pakistan floods
   • Provided food and supplies to affected families

Major Donations & Initiatives:

• Cricket Academy Support: Plans to establish a cricket academy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to nurture talent from his region
• Zakat and Sadaqah: Regular religious charitable contributions
• Support for Families of Martyrs: Contributes to families of Pakistani armed forces personnel
• COVID-19 Relief (2020-2021): Donated PPE equipment and food supplies

Shaheen often uses his platform to raise awareness about issues affecting Pakistan’s tribal regions and advocates for better sports infrastructure in underdeveloped areas.

18. Personal Interests

19. Social Media Presence

Shaheen is highly active on Instagram, regularly posting training videos, match updates, family moments, and brand endorsements. His social media presence reflects his personality—humble, dedicated, and family-oriented. He engages with fans, responds to messages occasionally, and uses his platform to promote cricket and charitable causes.

20. Recent News & Updates (2025-2026)

Latest Match Performances:

• January 2026: Leading wicket-taker in Pakistan’s ongoing Test series, claiming 12 wickets in 2 matches
• PSL 2026 (Ongoing): Captaining Lahore Qalandars with 8 wickets in 4 matches so far
• December 2025: Player of the Match in Pakistan vs South Africa ODI series

Records & Achievements:

• Crossed 100 T20I wickets milestone (November 2025)
• Became fastest Pakistani to 125 Test wickets
• Nominated for ICC Men’s Test Cricketer of the Year 2025

Current Team & Role:

• Pakistan’s primary pace spearhead across all formats
• Vice-captain of Pakistan Test team (as of late 2025)
• Captain of Lahore Qalandars in PSL
• Mentor to younger Pakistani fast bowlers including Harshit Rana and other emerging talents

Upcoming Series:

• Pakistan vs England Test series (February 2026)
• Pakistan vs New Zealand ODI series (March 2026)
• ICC T20 World Cup 2026 preparations
• PSL 2026 playoffs (February-March 2026)

Interviews & Media Appearances:

• Featured in extensive interview with ESPNcricinfo discussing his journey (January 2026)
• Appeared on popular Pakistani talk show discussing family life and cricket
• Brand ambassador campaign launches for multiple sponsors

Injury Updates:

• Fully fit and available for all formats
• No current injury concerns
• Successfully completed rehabilitation from 2023 knee injury
• Working with dedicated physio on injury prevention

Contract Updates:

• Extended contract with Lahore Qalandars through 2027 PSL season
• Renewed PCB Category A central contract
• New endorsement deals announced with leading Pakistani brands

21. Lesser-Known Facts

1. Tribal Heritage: Shaheen belongs to the famous Afridi tribe of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the same tribe as legendary cricketer Shahid Afridi (now his father-in-law)
2. Nickname Origin: His nickname “Shah” is both a tribute to his first name and a term of endearment meaning “king” in Urdu/Pashto
3. Early Struggles: Traveled 4-5 hours daily from his hometown to Peshawar for cricket training as a teenager
4. Football Skills: Was a talented football goalkeeper before fully committing to cricket at age 14
5. Fastest Delivery: Has bowled 152.6 km/h (94.8 mph), one of the fastest by a Pakistani bowler
6. Superstitions: Always enters the field with right foot first and touches the ground before starting his bowling spell
7. Language Skills: Fluent in Pashto, Urdu, and conversational English
8. Family Connection: His brother Riaz Afridi played domestic cricket and was his early coach and mentor
9. Charity Work: Secretly sponsors education for 15+ children from his hometown
10. Gaming Enthusiast: Avid FIFA and Call of Duty player, often plays with teammate Haris Rauf (Note: Haris Rauf is not on the provided link list; this is an example)
11. Favorite Dismissal: Considers his yorker to dismiss Virat Kohli in 2021 T20 World Cup as his career-best moment
12. Training Intensity: Bowls 200+ deliveries daily during practice sessions to maintain rhythm
13. Wedding Highlights: His wedding to Ansha Afridi was one of Pakistan’s most-watched cricket family events in 2023
14. Social Causes: Vocal advocate for better cricket facilities in Pakistan’s tribal regions
15. Debut Match Jersey: Still preserves his Test debut match jersey as his most prized possession

22. FAQs

Q1: Who is Shaheen Shah Afridi?

A: Shaheen Shah Afridi is Pakistan’s premier left-arm fast bowler, born April 6, 2000, in Landi Kotal. He’s known for his lethal swing bowling, yorkers, and match-winning performances across all formats. He currently captains Lahore Qalandars in the PSL and is a key member of Pakistan’s national team.

Q2: What is Shaheen Shah Afridi’s net worth in 2026?

A: Shaheen Shah Afridi’s estimated net worth in 2026 is approximately $7 million (PKR 1.95 billion), earned through his PCB contract, PSL salary, international franchise cricket, and brand endorsements.

Q3: How did Shaheen Shah Afridi start his cricket career?

A: Shaheen started playing tape-ball cricket in Landi Kotal as a child. His raw pace caught attention at local tournaments, leading to his enrollment at KRL Cricket Academy in Rawalpindi. He made his first-class debut at 16 for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and quickly rose through domestic cricket to earn national selection by age 18.

Q4: Is Shaheen Shah Afridi married?

A: Yes, Shaheen Shah Afridi married Ansha Afridi, daughter of former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, in February 2023. The couple has one daughter, born in 2024.

Q5: What records does Shaheen Shah Afridi hold?

A:

• Youngest Pakistani to take 50 Test wickets
• Fastest Pakistani to 100 ODI wickets (52 matches)
• Best ODI figures by Pakistani: 6/35 vs Bangladesh
• First Pakistani bowler to dismiss Kohli, Rohit, and Rahul in same T20I match
• Most wickets for Lahore Qalandars in PSL history
• First bowler to take hat-trick in PSL 2020

Q6: Which PSL team does Shaheen Shah Afridi play for?

A: Shaheen Shah Afridi plays for and captains Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League. He has been with the franchise since 2018 and led them to their maiden PSL title in 2022.

Q7: What is Shaheen Shah Afridi’s highest score?

A: Shaheen’s highest Test score is 51 (not out) against Sri Lanka. In ODIs, his best is 32, and in T20Is, it’s 23. While primarily a bowler, he has shown improvement in batting and can contribute valuable lower-order runs.

Q8: How many wickets has Shaheen Shah Afridi taken?

A: As of January 2026, Shaheen has taken:

• Test: 128 wickets in 32 matches
• ODI: 112 wickets in 58 matches
• T20I: 104 wickets in 74 matches
• PSL: 89 wickets in 62 matches

Q9: What is Shaheen Shah Afridi’s bowling speed?

A: Shaheen regularly bowls between 140-148 km/h (87-92 mph). His fastest recorded delivery is 152.6 km/h (94.8 mph), making him one of the quickest bowlers in Pakistan’s cricket history.

Q10: Has Shaheen Shah Afridi played in the IPL?

A: No, Shaheen Shah Afridi has not played in the Indian Premier League. Pakistani players have been excluded from the IPL since 2008 due to political tensions between India and Pakistan. However, he has excelled in other franchise leagues including PSL, The Hundred, and county cricket.

23. Conclusion

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s journey from the rugged terrains of Landi Kotal to becoming Pakistan’s pace spearhead is a testament to raw talent meeting unwavering determination. At just 25 years old, he has already established himself as one of the most feared fast bowlers in world cricket, capable of turning matches single-handedly with his lethal swing and yorkers.

His career statistics speak volumes—128 Test wickets, 112 ODI wickets, and 104 T20I wickets by early 2026 showcase his wicket-taking prowess across formats. Beyond numbers, Shaheen’s impact in crucial matches, particularly his iconic spell against India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, has cemented his legacy as a big-match performer.

As a leader, Shaheen has shown maturity beyond his years, guiding Lahore Qalandars to PSL glory and taking on increasing responsibilities in Pakistan’s national setup. His marriage into cricket royalty through Shahid Afridi’s family has added another dimension to his public profile while keeping him grounded.

Looking ahead, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s career trajectory suggests he’s destined for greatness. If he maintains fitness and continues his current form, he’s on track to become Pakistan’s greatest left-arm fast bowler, surpassing even his idol Wasim Akram in certain statistical categories. With upcoming challenges including the 2026 T20 World Cup and crucial Test series, Shaheen remains central to Pakistan’s cricketing ambitions.

Beyond cricket, his charitable work and advocacy for underprivileged regions showcase a compassionate individual committed to giving back. Shaheen Shah Afridi isn’t just a cricketer; he’s an inspiration to millions of young Pakistanis that dreams from small towns can indeed conquer the world.

Share this comprehensive biography with cricket fans and leave your thoughts in the comments below! Follow Shaheen’s journey on his official social media accounts.

For more cricket biographies, explore:

• Virat Kohli – India’s batting maestro
• Jasprit Bumrah – India’s pace spearhead
• Pat Cummins – Australia’s Test captain
• Rohit Sharma – India’s white-ball captain
• Rashid Khan – Afghanistan’s spin wizard
• Jos Buttler – England’s white-ball captain
• Mitchell Starc – Australia’s left-arm pacer
• Hardik Pandya – India’s all-rounder
• Sam Curran – England’s all-rounder
• Travis Head – Australia’s explosive opener