Pakistan’s pace sensation, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has been signed by the Desert Vipers as the first player in the new player signings list for the upcoming DP World International League T20 (ILT20) Season 2. In a significant move, Afridi becomes the first Pakistani player to be enlisted by a franchise in the ILT20, further enhancing the league’s global appeal.
Known for his fiery left-arm deliveries, Afridi has left an indelible mark on the world of cricket. With an impressive tally of 229 wickets in 161 T20 matches, his prowess on the pitch has garnered attention from fans around the globe. Afridi expressed his excitement about joining the Desert Vipers and acknowledged the substantial Pakistan cricket fanbase in the UAE, hoping for their support in the upcoming DP World ILT20.
“I am excited to join the Desert Vipers. I know many Pakistan cricket fans in the UAE, and I hope they will support our team in the upcoming DP World ILT20,” Shaheen said.
Afridi’s cricketing journey has been marked by remarkable progress across formats since his T20I debut 2018. His consistent performances led him to be awarded the prestigious ICC Player of the Year and The Sir Garfield Sobers Trophy, the highest annual ICC award for a cricketer. His impressive international wickets tally stands at 239, encompassing 105 Tests, 70 ODIs, and 64 T20Is.
An interesting facet of Afridi’s bowling prowess is his ability to take wickets at the start of his bowling spells, having captured 42 first-over wickets in the T20 format.
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Shaheen Shah Afridi adds even more depth and quality to an already star-studded lineup of T20 luminaries in the Desert Vipers squad. As the finalists of the previous DP World ILT20 season, the Vipers have retained top players from the global T20 circuit.
Notable names such as Alex Hales, the previous season’s top run-scorer and Green Belt winner, along with Colin Munro and Wanindu Hasaranga, among others, contribute to the formidable strength of the Vipers.