Who is No.1 ODI Bowler? Get to Know Shaheen Shah Afridi, ODI Sensation!

In the world of cricket, the title of No. 1 ODI Bowler is a prestigious one, and it’s a position that every bowler aspires to achieve. In recent times, a remarkable talent from Pakistan has risen to claim this top spot. Shaheen Shah Afridi, with his exceptional skills and impressive performances, has become the No. 1 ODI bowler in the international cricket arena. Let’s delve into his journey and understand what makes him the best in the business.

A Spectacular ODI World Cup

The journey to the No. 1 spot began with the 50-over format of the game. Shaheen Shah Afridi’s remarkable performance in the ODI World Cup caught the attention of cricket enthusiasts worldwide. In just seven matches, he managed to take a stunning 16 wickets. What’s even more impressive is his average of 19.93, showcasing his ability to consistently deliver breakthroughs for his team.

The First Time at the Helm

This achievement is not just about reaching the top; it’s about reaching there for the first time in his career. Afridi’s ascent to No. 1 is a testament to his skill, speed, and the ability to make a significant impact on the international stage. He’s not only a bowler who takes wickets; he’s a game-changer.

Who is Shaheen Shah Afridi?

Shaheen Shah Afridi, often referred to as “The Falcon,” is a Pakistani cricketer with a reputation for his exceptional left-arm fast bowling skills. Born on April 6, 2000, in Landi Kotal, Pakistan, Afridi has become a household name in cricketing circles, representing Pakistan in all formats of the game.

A Height Advantage

Standing tall at 6 feet 6 inches, Afridi’s presence on the field is commanding. His towering height, combined with his ability to generate pace and bounce, makes him a formidable force. Batsmen often find it challenging to face the deliveries of this towering speedster.

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Early Life

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s journey in cricket begins in Landi Kotal, which was formerly part of the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and is now known as Khyber District, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. He was born into the Zakhakhel Afridi tribe, a subgroup of the Pashtun community.

A Sporting Family

The Afridi family has deep-rooted connections with sports. His eldest brother, Riaz Afridi, represented Pakistan in a solitary Test match in 2004. Additionally, his cousin Yasir Afridi is a professional footballer who has proudly donned the Pakistan national football team’s jersey.

Beyond Cricket

Afridi’s influence goes beyond the cricket field. In recognition of his growing stature, he was honored with an honorary Deputy Superintendent of Police (DSP) rank in the KP Police in July 2022, serving as a goodwill ambassador. His multi-faceted involvement in cricket is further highlighted by his role in designing Lahore Qalandars’ new kits for the 2023 PSL.

Domestic Career Highlights

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s journey in domestic cricket is marked by significant achievements. His talent was evident right from the beginning when he made his first-class debut for Khan Research Laboratories in the 2017–18 Quaid-e-Azam Trophy. In this match, he achieved a record by taking 8 wickets for just 39 runs in the second innings. It was a remarkable start to his first-class career.

Representing Baluchistan

Afridi’s domestic cricket journey also included representing Baluchistan in the 2018 Pakistan Cup and making his List A debut. His ability to consistently perform at the domestic level was a stepping stone to international recognition.

A Global Presence

Afridi’s impact extended beyond Pakistan’s domestic circuit. He participated in international franchise leagues like the Euro T20 Slam and the English T20 Blast, where he showcased his skills and made significant contributions to his respective teams.

Quick Rise in T20Is

Afridi’s journey in international cricket began with his T20 International (T20I) debut against the West Indies in April 2018. He quickly established himself as a key player in Pakistan’s T20I bowling lineup.

ODI Debut

In September 2018, he made his One Day International (ODI) debut against Afghanistan. His impressive performances in the limited-overs formats earned him a spot in Pakistan’s ODI squad.

Test Cricket

Afridi’s journey extended to Test cricket in November 2018 when he was named in Pakistan’s Test squad for their series against New Zealand. This marked his entry into the longest format of the game.

World Cup Glory

Afridi’s impact was felt on the grandest stage of them all – the Cricket World Cup. In the 2019 World Cup, he made history by becoming the youngest bowler to take a five-wicket haul in a World Cup match. His figures of 6/35 against Bangladesh in that tournament were not only the best by a Pakistani bowler in a World Cup match but also a reflection of his immense talent.

Cricketer of the Year

In January 2022, Shaheen Shah Afridi received the title of Cricketer of the Year from the International Cricket Council (ICC). This accolade reinforced his status as a pivotal figure in Pakistan’s cricketing landscape.

The Afridi Family’s Sporting Legacy

The Afridi family’s legacy in sports is evident. With several members making their mark in cricket and football, their influence on the sporting landscape in Pakistan is significant.

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s Net Worth

As of 2023, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s estimated net worth stands at an impressive $5 million. His earnings come from various sources, including match fees, contracts with cricket franchises, sponsorships, and commercial endorsements. His involvement in prestigious cricket leagues like the Pakistan Super League (PSL) has contributed significantly to his financial success.

Conclusion

In the world of cricket, Shaheen Shah Afridi’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. From humble beginnings in the tribal areas of Pakistan to becoming the No. 1 ODI bowler and receiving accolades from the ICC, Afridi’s story is one of dedication, talent, and a commitment to excellence. His towering presence on the field and his ability to consistently deliver breakthroughs make him a true asset to Pakistan’s national cricket team.

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s impact extends beyond cricket, as he plays a role in various aspects of the sport, from captaining a team to designing kits and serving as a goodwill ambassador. His family’s sporting legacy and his cousin Yasir Afridi’s football career add another dimension to his influence in the world of sports.

With an estimated net worth of

$5 million, Afridi’s financial success reflects his growing popularity and the opportunities that come with being a top-tier cricketer. As he continues to shine on the international stage, fans eagerly await his future performances and the milestones he is set to achieve.

FAQs

1. What is Shaheen Shah Afridi’s current ICC ranking?

Shaheen Shah Afridi is the current No. 1 ODI bowler in the world.

2. Who is Shaheen Shah Afridi?

Shaheen Shah Afridi is a Pakistani cricketer known for his exceptional left-arm fast bowling.

3. What is Shaheen Shah Afridi’s net worth in 2023?

Shaheen Shah Afridi’s estimated net worth in 2023 is $5 million.

4. How tall is Shaheen Shah Afridi?

Shaheen Shah Afridi stands at a towering height of 6 feet 6 inches.

5. Which team does Shaheen Shah Afridi captain in the PSL?

Shaheen Shah Afridi captains the Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League (PSL).