Saira Imran A 38-year-old Pakistani spinner achieved a remarkable milestone by taking five wickets in his first Test match. Asif Afridi showed exceptional skill and control, helping Pakistan strengthen their position in the Rawalpindi Test against South Africa. His debut performance was both inspiring and historic.
Asif Afridi broke an important partnership between Stubbs and Zorzi, shifting the game’s momentum in Pakistan’s favor. His fourth delivery dismissed Kyle Verreynne, caught by wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan. Later, he sent Tristan Stubbs and Simon Harmer back to the pavilion after scoring 76 and 2 runs respectively.
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This brilliant performance made Asif Afridi only the second left-arm spinner from Pakistan to take five wickets on debut. His confidence and composure on the field impressed both fans and cricket experts.
By the end of the second day, South Africa had scored 210 runs for seven wickets. They still trailed by 123 runs. Earlier, Pakistan made 333 runs in their first innings. South Africa started their reply with a steady approach. Shaheen Afridi dismissed Ruan Rickelton for 14 runs. Tony de Zorzi played well and scored 55 runs. Captain Aiden Markram added 32 runs. Dewald Brevis, however, was out without scoring.
Asif Afridi’s performance has brought a new spark to Pakistan’s bowling lineup. His debut will be remembered for years as one of the finest by a Pakistani spinner. The Rawalpindi crowd celebrated each wicket with loud cheers, appreciating the bowler’s remarkable achievement.
Cricket fans on social media praised Asif Afridi’s journey, noting that his success at 38 proves age is not a barrier to dreams. His story inspires many young and older players alike.
With South Africa still chasing a big total, Pakistan looks confident to take full control of the match. The team’s bowling attack, led by Afridi, continues to dominate on home soil.
In the dressing room, Shaheen Afridi jokingly said to Asif, “When you played your first match, I was a kid watching you on TV,” adding light humor to the celebration.
Asif Afridi’s five-wicket haul not only strengthened Pakistan’s position but also placed him among the elite debut performers in Test cricket history. His achievement shows that dedication and patience always pay off.
In the end, this match will be remembered not just for Pakistan’s dominance but for the brilliant debut of a 38-year-old spinner who proved that passion knows no age limit.
