Shaheen eyes BBL brilliance

LAHORE: Pakistan’s left-arm pace sensation, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has set a unique target ahead of his stint in the Big Bash League (BBL), revealing his aspirations during an appearance on The Surge Podcast hosted by former Australia captain Aaron Finch.

Afridi, known for his explosive opening spells, expressed his trademark hunger for early breakthroughs: “I wish to maintain my tradition of taking a wicket in the first over in the Big Bash as well.”

Looking ahead to high-profile matchups in the BBL, Afridi singled out some formidable targets: “I’ll try to get all three, Babar Azam, David Warner, and Steve Smith, out in the BBL — not just one,” he stated with a smile. Afridi shared admiration for Australian stalwart David Warner, calling him “a legendary player and a very good human being.” Yet, the respect comes with fierce competition: “Playing against him is always a challenge, but if I get his wicket, that moment will be special for me.”

Excited by the opportunity to experience the unique cricketing culture Down Under, the left-armer highlighted the learning curve and conditions: “The Big Bash is always a challenging league; the bouncy pitches in Australian grounds help fast bowlers.” The Gabba, often referred to as a fortress for Australian cricket, holds a special place in Afridi’s imagination. “I wish that when I run in to bowl at the Gabba, the fans chant ‘Shaheen Afridi’,” he mused, adding that “Mitchell Johnson’s brilliant spell at the Gabba is very memorable.” Afridi is eager to embrace the broader experience as well: “I will get an opportunity to learn a new culture in the BBL; the Gabba is a fantastic ground.”