(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Shaheen Afridi Joins Elite ODI List With Rare Opening-Wicket Record
Pakistan left-arm fast bowler and captain Shaheen Shah Afridi created history by becoming only the third Pakistan skipper to take a wicket on the very first ball of a One-Day International (ODI).
The milestone came during the second ODI against Australia at Gaddafi Stadium, Lahore, where Shaheen dismissed Alex Carey on the first delivery of the innings. The ball moved away after being bowled full and wide, resulting in an early breakthrough for Pakistan.
With this achievement, Shaheen joined an exclusive group of Pakistan captains who have taken a wicket on the opening ball of an ODI, alongside former greats Wasim Akram and Waqar Younis.
Pakistan captains with first-ball ODI wickets:
- Wasim Akram vs Zimbabwe, Karachi (1993)
- Waqar Younis vs England, Leeds (2001)
- Shaheen Shah Afridi vs Australia, Lahore (2026)
Shaheen further strengthened Pakistan’s position with additional wickets in the match. He dismissed Matthew Kuhnemann in the 47th over and Nathan Ellis in the 49th over, finishing with figures of 3 for 36 in eight overs.
He was supported by Pakistan’s bowling unit, including Haris Rauf, Abrar Ahmed, and Arafat Minhas, as Australia were restricted to 231 for 9 in their 50 overs.
At the time of reporting, Pakistan were struggling in their chase at 74 for 5 after 16 overs, needing 157 runs from 34 overs.
Pakistan currently lead the three-match ODI series 1-0 after winning the opening match in Rawalpindi by five wickets.
