The Shaheen Afridi dangerous opponent T20 World Cup narrative gained fresh momentum after former England cricketer Michael Atherton praised the Pakistani fast bowler despite England’s victory.
Speaking after the Super Eight clash in Kandy, Atherton described Shaheen Shah Afridi as a major threat with the new ball. He stressed that early wickets define Afridi’s influence on any match.
“Wickets up top is what he’s all about,” Atherton said. He added that Afridi’s pace and ability to swing the ball make him a dangerous opponent for any side.
The ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 Super Eight match saw England chase a target of 165 with five balls to spare. Although Pakistan fell short, Afridi delivered an impressive spell.
Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi, speaking to Samaa News, said he had deliberately sought a strong reaction from Shaheen Afridi. He stated, “I wanted Shaheen to be angry with me. If you ask me again, I would still drop him in the next match. Sometimes, to unlock a player’s full potential, you have to criticise them and break their ego and it worked brilliantly.”
Shahid Afridi said, "I wanted Shaheen to be angry with me, If you ask me again, I would still drop him in the next match. Sometimes, to unlock a player's full potential, you have to criticise them and break their ego. And it worked brilliantly."pic.twitter.com/JhdrQ8Vt6L
— Salman. (@TsMeSalman) February 25, 2026The left-arm pacer claimed four wickets and disrupted England’s top order. His early breakthroughs kept Pakistan in contention during crucial phases of the game.
Atherton also noted that Afridi has faced a challenging period recently but remains an iconic figure in Pakistan cricket. According to him, dismissing Harry Brook earlier in the innings could have significantly shifted the outcome.
Read: Harry Brook T20 World Cup Century Floors Pakistan, Says Afridi
Despite the result, Afridi’s performance reinforced his reputation as a match-winning bowler. His ability to strike with the new ball continues to make him one of Pakistan’s most influential players in T20 cricket.
