It wouldn’t have been a T10 League without Shahid Afridi’s presence especially as the tournament is played at Sharjah Cricket Stadium.
Having made a big impact at the venue with the bat and ball in T20s and ODIs throughout his glittering career with Pakistan, the stage was set for ‘Boom Boom’ to showcase his talent again in the new shortest format.
Despite Afridi’s star turn with the bat, in something of a throwback, his Pakthoons side were beaten by nine-wickets in Sunday’s semi-final against Punjabi Legends.
Here, we look closely at the 37-year-old’s showing.
STATS
Overs bowled: Two
Wickets: None
Economy: 11.50
Figures: 0-23
Runs: 41 from 17 balls, including five sixes and one four.
EFFECTIVENESS WITH THE BAT AND BALL
A man who thrives on the big stage, Afridi didn’t disappoint at all with the bat. Coming in at No.3, the Pakthoons skipper faced only 17 balls but more importantly struck five sixes and one four in his 41-run knock – all of which were met by a roar of cheers at the crowds.
His first spell with the ball saw him concede three runs as well as three extras but his return in the 8th over, ultimately helped Punjabi Legends to victory. It all started well with three singles and a two but his final two deliveries saw Shoaib Malik hit back-to-back sixes.
VERDICT
Seven. Superb effort with the bat but was outdone with some brilliance batting from Punjabi Legends.
Afridi was wicketless but still made time for a trademark appeal.
