Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has tipped fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi to be the highest wicket-taker in the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which kicks off on February 19 in Pakistan.
Afridi made his prediction while participating in a panel discussion on a renowned Indian sports channel ahead of the much-anticipated Pakistan vs. India clash.
The expert panel included former Indian cricket stars Yuvraj Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu, along with former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq.
The panelists discussed six key questions regarding the tournament, including who would finish as the leading wicket-taker.
Shahid Afridi backed Shaheen Shah Afridi to dominate the wickets, while Inzamam-ul-Haq placed his bet on Haris Rauf. Yuvraj Singh, on the other hand, favored Indian pacer Mohammed Shami, whereas Navjot Singh Sidhu believed an Indian spinner would lead the tally.
Afridi’s confidence in Shaheen is based on the pacer’s exceptional performances since his international debut in 2018.
The young speedster has delivered match-winning performances across formats, including a historic five-wicket haul (6/35) against Bangladesh in the 2019 Cricket World Cup, making him the youngest bowler to achieve the feat in a World Cup match.
Discussing the high-stakes Pakistan vs. India encounter, Afridi stressed that attitude and body language would be crucial in determining the match’s outcome.
Reflecting on the 2011 World Cup semifinal, he recalled how a shift in confidence affected Pakistan’s chances.
"We thought we had won. But after our first wicket fell, and seeing India’s body language in the field, I sensed from the dugout that we might struggle to chase the target. It’s all about confidence and how you overpower the other team," Afridi remarked.
With excitement building for the tournament, all eyes will be on Shaheen Shah Afridi as he aims to justify Afridi’s faith with stellar performances on the big stage.
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