Asif Afridi Shines After 16-Year Wait in Test Cricket Thriller
Tolerance pays off. At 38, Asif Afridi eventually made a memorable mark on the transnational stage after staying 16 long years. His moment came during a recent Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi, where his spin bowling left a lasting impression.
It was a debut that felt like fortune. suckers and teammates likewise witnessed a mix of experience, countenance, and perfection that can only come with times of domestic justice.
Afridi’s first over didn’t go unnoticed. He bowled in the 13th over of South Africa’s innings, only to be hammered for a six by Aiden Markram. But Afridi didn’t falter.
He recalibrated. His familiarity with Rawalpindi’s pitches, where he had debuted years ago, helped him regain rhythm quickly.
38 YEARS OLD ASIF AFRIDI GETS A FIFER ON TEST DEBUT! pic.twitter.com/phz8KJqVdj
— PCT Replays 2.0 (@ReplaysPCT) October 22, 2025
Over 11 overs, Afridi conceded just 19 runs. His line was tight. His length is perfect. He became the standout bowler of the innings.
Teammate Saud Shakeel reflected, “His domestic experience speaks volumes. It’s clear he knows how to handle pressure and translate that into results.”
Afridi’s spell underlined a common truth: excelling in domestic cricket doesn’t always guarantee immediate recognition internationally. But when opportunity knocks, readiness matters.
Finally, the moment every spinner dreams of. Afridi dismissed Tony de Zorzi in the 58th over. It came via an LBW appeal initially rejected by the on-field umpire.
Pakistan’s review system turned the call in Afridi’s favor. Celebration ensued. Teammates hugged, applauded, and acknowledged the significance of the wicket.
Soon after, Afridi struck again. Dewald Brevis fell to a classical spin delivery, the ball sneaking through to slip. Two wickets, 90 deliveries, 74 dot balls, a statement of patience paying off.
- Age: 38
- Years waited for Test: 16
- Deliveries bowled: 90
- Dot balls: 74
- Economy rate: Nearly half that of the next bowler
Afridi’s display is more than stats. It’s a testament to persistence, skill, and understanding of the nuances of the game. A late career highlight, yes, but a deserved one.
Asif Afridi’s journey reminds us that in cricket, as in life, timing isn’t always immediate, but greatness waits for no one.
