On October 31, 2023, Shaheen Shah Afridi, the formidable left-arm fast bowler from Pakistan, etched his name into the annals of cricket history. He became the third fastest bowler to claim 100 wickets in One Day Internationals (ODIs). This remarkable feat was achieved during Pakistan’s World Cup 2023 match against Bangladesh at the iconic Eden Gardens in Kolkata, adding a new chapter to Shaheen’s illustrious career.
Shaheen’s journey to this milestone unfolded in the 51st ODI match of his career. The historic wicket came in a gripping encounter against the Tigers of Bangladesh when he dismissed Tanzid Hasan Tamim, the opening batter, with an expertly executed delivery. Shaheen’s fast and furious southpaw bowling style came into play as he struck Tamim’s pads. The on-field umpire swiftly declared the batter out, sending excitement through the stadium.
However, as is often the case in modern cricket, Tamim used the Decision Review System (DRS). The tension in the stadium rose as the review unfolded. Yet, replays revealed the undeniable truth – the ball had indeed crashed onto the stumps, affirming the on-field decision. Bangladesh had lost their first wicket with their score at a mere 0 in just 0.5 overs.
This record-breaking achievement wasn’t just about reaching the century mark; it was about the speed at which Shaheen accomplished it. He dethroned the previous record holder, Mitchell Starc, who had set the record in August 2016 during an ODI against Sri Lanka at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo. Shaheen’s rapid ascent to 100 wickets positioned him as the fastest pacer to reach this milestone, showcasing his extraordinary talent and skill.
In his remarkable journey to 100 ODI wickets, Shaheen also broke the 26-year-old record held by Saqlain Mushtaq. Saqlain had set the benchmark on May 12, 1997, during an ODI against Sri Lanka in Gwalior.
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Shaheen’s feat highlighted his emergence as a once-in-a-generation talent in Pakistan’s fast-bowling arsenal. Among Pakistani fast bowlers, the only individual who reached the 100-wicket milestone faster than Shaheen was the legendary Waqar Younis. Waqar accomplished this feat in February 1993 during an ODI against Zimbabwe in Sharjah. It’s a testament to Shaheen’s skill and dedication that he finds himself in the company of such iconic Pakistani bowlers.
🚨 RECORD ALERT 🚨@iShaheenAfridi becomes the fastest pacer to 1️⃣0️⃣0️⃣ ODI wickets in his 51st game! 🦅#PAKvBAN | #CWC23 | #DattKePakistani pic.twitter.com/ergzociYeu
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) October 31, 2023
Shaheen’s achievements in ODIs are just one facet of his cricketing journey. Since his debut in 2018, he has consistently delivered outstanding performances in all formats. In Test cricket, he has claimed 105 wickets, while in the fast-paced world of T20Is, he has taken 64 wickets.
Notably, Shaheen’s cricketing journey began with a strong statement when he excelled in the U19 World Cup in New Zealand. His remarkable journey continued as he played a crucial role in helping Lahore Qalandars clinch back-to-back titles in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).