On October 20, Pakistan faced South Africa in the second Test at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan won the toss and chose to bat first. Notably, a significant change in the playing XI was announced by Captain Shan Masood. Left-arm spinner Asif Afridi replaced pacer Hasan Ali, who had a disappointing performance in the previous Test.
Asif Afridi’s Test Debut
Asif Afridi, a 38-year-old spinner from Peshawar, is making his Test debut for Pakistan. Though this is his first appearance at the international level, he has been a standout performer in domestic cricket for over a decade. Known for his accuracy and consistency, Afridi has made quite a name for himself.
Domestic Career Highlights
- First-class debut in 2009.
- A short break followed by a return in 2015.
- Played 57 first-class matches.
- Achieved 198 wickets in 95 innings at an average of 25.49.
- Maintained an economy rate of 2.92.
- Scored 1,630 runs in 94 innings, including one century.
Strategic Move by the Pakistan Team
The change in personnel was tactical. Hasan Ali, who is 31, was left out after failing to take any wickets in the opening Test. This decision aimed to bolster Pakistan’s bowling by adding additional spin, particularly given the expected spin-friendly conditions of the Rawalpindi pitch.
Historic Significance of Afridi’s Age
With this debut, Asif Afridi becomes Pakistan’s second-oldest Test debutant at 38 years and 299 days. He holds this record, further emphasized by the fact that if Amir Elahi is considered, Afridi ranks third. His debut is a remarkable milestone that highlights both his perseverance and dedication to the sport.
