Did Shaheen Afridi’s bowling crush Australia?

Shaheen Afridi’s bowling proved too hot to handle for Australia in Lahore. The Pakistani skipper led the way, smashing the visitor’s batting block and leaving him in shreds in the series-deciding match. Australian skipper Josh Inglis’ decision to bat first at the Gaddafi Stadium proved disastrous. Pakistan’s pace attack, led by a fiery Afridi, refused to put the Aussies under any pressure. The opener Matthew Short was promptly knocked off for a duck on the first ball of the match by Shaheen.

This early blow immediately put the visitors on the defensive. Pakistan maintained the pace with Marnus Labuschagne and Josh Inglis playing a shrewd 46-run stand for the slow bowlers but they were still not able to check the boat. Australia had the only solid resistance in its way until a brilliant direct hit from young Arafat Minhas sent Labuschagne packing, for 19.

From then on, the end was near. Australia were finally bowled out for a plonk 157 runs in 42 balls. Shaheen concluded his session with impressive figures of three wickets which is the same reason why he is regarded as one of the most lethal frontline bowlers in white-ball cricket. In my opinion this match was won in the first powerplay. It is a good sign of confidence for the entire team when the captain steps in the first over itself. Australia were in a state of dismay after that early dismissal.

The Pakistani bowlers have been relentless in their pursuit and that is why their total of 157 is below par. Shaheen was the real leader of the series as she put Pakistan in a commanding position to clinch the trophy on their home soil.

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