[Watch] Shaheen Afridi Sends Warning to Rohit Sharma with First-Over Wicket Against New Zealand

Prepend to the Content

Pakistan kicked off their tri-series campaign in style as they took on New Zealand at the newly inaugurated Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday, February 8. This tri-series, also featuring South Africa, serves as a crucial preparation phase ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy, which begins on February 19 in Pakistan. Interestingly, Pakistan and New Zealand will also face each other in the tournament’s opening match in Karachi.

Shaheen Afridi Strikes Early for Pakistan

Pakistan made an excellent start to the match, thanks to their star pacer Shaheen Afridi, who once again delivered with the new ball. Known for his ability to strike in the first over, Afridi dismissed New Zealand opener Will Young in the very first over of the match.

After conceding a boundary on the third ball, Afridi made a strong comeback on the next delivery. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan took a brilliant diving catch behind the stumps, leaving Young stunned. Afridi, thrilled with the early breakthrough, ran towards Fakhar Zaman and hugged him in celebration.

Pakistan’s Strong ODI Form Continues

Pakistan have been in excellent form in the ODI format, having recently secured series wins against Australia and South Africa. They entered this tri-series as the favorites and made a few changes to their squad, bringing in Fakhar Zaman, who had been absent from the team for a while.

Fakhar’s return comes after a turbulent phase, where he was dropped following a controversial social media post criticizing the PCB. While he later apologized, he only made his way back into the squad due to Saim Ayub’s injury.

Why Rohit Sharma Should be Scared?

Pakistan will face India on February 23 at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium, as India will not be traveling to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy. Instead, all of India’s matches will be played under the hybrid model, meaning they will play all their games in Dubai.

Indian openers, especially Rohit Sharma, must step up once again as he will face Shaheen Afridi, who has built a reputation for taking wickets early, particularly in the first over.

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