ISLAMABAD (PEN) : Pakistan’s fast bowling sensation eager to challenge Babar, Smith, and Warner in Australia’s premier T20 league
Pakistan’s pace star Shaheen Shah Afridi has shared his ambitions for the upcoming Big Bash League (BBL) 2025 season, revealing his excitement to compete against some of the world’s best batters — including Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and David Warner.
The 25-year-old left-arm pacer, set to represent Brisbane Heat in his debut BBL season, discussed his goals during a recent podcast interview. Asked to name the batter he’s most eager to dismiss, Afridi made it clear he wouldn’t be settling for just one.
“For me, it’s all three,” he said with a smile. “I wouldn’t pick just one because all of them are crucial wickets. They’re key players for their teams, and I’d love to dismiss each of them.”
Pakistani Presence in BBL Excites Afridi
Afridi also expressed enthusiasm about the increased number of Pakistani cricketers participating in the 15th edition of the Big Bash League. He highlighted the challenge and thrill of facing teammates from the Pakistan Super League (PSL), such as Mohammad Rizwan and Shadab Khan.
“This year, six or seven Pakistani players are taking part in the Big Bash, so I’m really looking forward to playing against them,” he said. “We just played together in the PSL, and these guys — Babar, Rizwan, Shadab — are big names who have been performing for Pakistan for many years. It’s a great challenge.”
Afridi noted that fans, especially those from the Pakistani diaspora in Australia, are in for an exciting season.
“I think the crowd, especially the Pakistani fans, will enjoy it whenever we face Babar, Rizwan, and others. Hopefully, we can put on a good show in front of a big crowd.”
High Hopes for Breakthrough Performances
Known for his ability to strike early, Afridi said he is focused on producing impactful performances right from the start.
“It will be even more special if I get a wicket in the first over again,” he said. “I’ll put all my energy into the celebration, and with the support of the crowd behind me, it’ll feel amazing.”
He added that crowd engagement is a key motivator for him on the field.
“I’ll be even happier if both Pakistani and Australian fans cheer and call out ‘Afridi’ when I’m at the top of my run-up. That will really pump me up, and I think I’ll enjoy it even more.”
Praise for Babar Azam
Afridi took a moment to commend Babar Azam’s consistency and stature in global cricket.
“You know he performs around the world, he’s a top performer. People love him, and he delivers on big international stages,” Afridi said. “I think he’s the only batter who consistently scores runs, and we all expect him to keep performing with the same flow. He’s a big name in the cricket world.”
Target: BBL Title with Brisbane Heat
Looking ahead to his first BBL campaign, Afridi is aiming high — with the goal of lifting the trophy with Brisbane Heat.
“That will be amazing — to win one more trophy. It would make my first season even more special,” he said. “In the PSL, we won three trophies, and it’s all about the players and how the management gives you that cushion to enjoy your cricket.”
“That’s the main thing. I’m really hopeful — Brisbane Heat are a very good side, and I’m looking forward to winning another trophy with them.”
The BBL 2025 season promises electrifying matchups, and with Shaheen Afridi at full throttle, fans can expect thrilling encounters from the very first over.
