Pakistan cricket fans had plenty to cheer about as Shaheen Afridi’s super performance powered the national team into the Super Fours of the Asia Cup 2025. In a high-stakes clash against the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Pakistan relied heavily on their bowling strength after another inconsistent batting display. Thanks to Shaheen’s explosive batting cameo and brilliant bowling, Pakistan secured a convincing 41-run victory.
Shaheen Afridi Super Performance with Bat and Ball
The highlight of the match was undoubtedly Shaheen Afridi’s super performance. When Pakistan’s batting lineup collapsed yet again, Shaheen came to the rescue. With Pakistan struggling at 117 for 8, he smashed a lightning-fast 29 runs off just 14 balls. His innings, featuring three boundaries and two sixes, lifted Pakistan to a fighting total of 146 for 8 in their 20 overs.
But Shaheen didn’t stop there. With the ball in hand, he delivered a fiery spell that dismantled UAE’s batting order. He struck early by dismissing opener Ali Shan Sharfoo for just 12, and later removed a dangerous middle-order batter. Shaheen finished with two crucial wickets, showcasing his match-winning ability once again.
Pakistan’s Struggles with Batting Continue
Despite the victory, Pakistan’s batting issues remain a concern. Fakhar Zaman stood tall with a solid 50 off 36 balls, decorated with two fours and three sixes. However, the rest of the top order faltered. Saim Ayub, once again out of form, was dismissed for a duck, while Sahibzada Farhan managed only 5 runs. Captain Salman Ali Agha chipped in with 20, but the middle order collapsed under pressure.
UAE’s bowling exposed Pakistan’s weaknesses. Junaid Siddiqui was the star bowler for the opposition, picking up 4 wickets for just 18 runs. Simranjit Singh added to the woes by claiming 3 wickets. Without Shaheen Afridi’s super performance at the end, Pakistan’s total could have been far less challenging for the Emirates.
Pakistan Bowlers Dominate the Emirates
Defending a modest 146, Pakistan’s bowlers stepped up to ensure the team’s place in the Super Fours. Haris Rauf, returning to the side, made an immediate impact with 2 wickets for 19 runs. Leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed also shone, taking 2 wickets for just 13 runs. Salman Ali Agha and Saim Ayub chipped in with one wicket each, further tightening the grip.
The Emirates showed some resistance through Rahul Chopra, who top-scored with 35 off 35 balls. But once he was dismissed by Salman, the chase collapsed. The entire UAE side was bowled out for 105 runs in 18 overs, falling 41 runs short.
Why Shaheen Afridi Super Performance Matters for Pakistan
Pakistan has now won two out of three matches in the group stage, ensuring their qualification for the Super Fours. Yet, the win once again highlighted the overreliance on bowling strength, especially on Shaheen Afridi’s super performance. His dual contribution with both bat and ball shows why he is considered one of Pakistan’s biggest match-winners.
With the Super Fours ahead, Pakistan will need more consistency from their batting unit. Fakhar Zaman’s return to form is encouraging, but the middle order must support him. Players like Saim Ayub, Khushdil Shah, and Salman Ali Agha need to find their rhythm quickly. Otherwise, Pakistan risks depending too heavily on its bowlers.
Key Match Statistics
- Pakistan’s total: 146/8 in 20 overs
- Top scorer: Fakhar Zaman – 50 off 36 balls
- Shaheen Afridi’s batting: 29* off 14 balls (3 fours, 2 sixes)
- Shaheen Afridi’s bowling: 2 wickets for 16 runs
- Haris Rauf’s bowling: 2 wickets for 19 runs
- Abrar Ahmed’s bowling: 2 wickets for 13 runs
- UAE’s total: 105 all out in 18 overs
- Pakistan won by: 41 runs
As Pakistan advances to the Super Fours, confidence will be high in the bowling department. Shaheen Afridi’s super performance has once again shown that Pakistan’s strength lies in its pace attack. However, tougher opponents await in the next stage, and the batting order must rise to the occasion.
