Pakistan’s pace sensation, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has matched the record for most first-over wickets in ODIs, joining the legendary Umar Gul with nine wickets.
Afridi achieved this milestone in the opening match of the tri-nation ODI series against New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium on Saturday.
His lethal delivery to dismiss Will Young on just the fourth ball of the innings marked his latest early breakthrough, adding to his reputation as a bowler who thrives in the opening over.
With this achievement, Afridi now shares second place among Pakistani bowlers with the most first-over wickets, alongside Umar Gul. The record is held by former left-arm pacer Mohammad Irfan and legendary swing bowler Wasim Akram, who both have 10 first-over wickets.
Top Pakistani Bowlers with First-Over ODI Wickets:
- Mohammad Irfan – 10
- Wasim Akram – 10
- Shaheen Shah Afridi – 9
- Umar Gul – 9
Afridi, already renowned for his early breakthroughs in T20 cricket, continues to excel in ODIs, further cementing his place as one of Pakistan’s premier fast bowlers.