Pakistan’s journey to the Asia Cup 2025 final was highlighted by a memorable performance from Shaheen Shah Afridi who reached a special milestone in T20 internationals during the Super Four clash against Bangladesh.
The left-arm pacer delivered a brilliant spell, picking up three wickets for only 17 runs. His early breakthroughs set the tone and his finishing spell sealed the deal as Bangladesh fell short by 11 runs while chasing 136.
His efforts earned him the Player of the Match award, his 10th in T20Is the most by any fast bowler in the format.
Afridi’s impact wasn’t limited to the ball. With Pakistan struggling to push the total, he added a crucial 19 runs off 13 balls, smashing two sixes that lifted the team to 135/8. Those runs proved vital in the end as Bangladesh could manage only 124/9 in their 20 overs.
The match also saw strong support from Haris Rauf, who bagged three wickets of his own. Together, the pace duo combined for six wickets, leaving Bangladesh’s batting lineup in tatters. Contributions from Mohammad Nawaz and Saim Ayub further tightened the grip, as the bowlers kept the pressure on throughout the innings.
Afridi’s achievement adds another chapter to his growing legacy in world cricket. Known for his fiery first overs, he once again struck early, sending Bangladesh on the back foot right from the start. His consistency and match-winning ability continue to make him Pakistan’s go-to player in crunch situations.
With this victory, Pakistan set up a blockbuster final against India and Afridi’s milestone will be remembered as a proud moment leading into the showdown.
