Cricket fans in Rawalpindi witnessed a rare and emotional moment today as 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi made his long-awaited Pakistan Test Debut against South Africa. The veteran spinner’s inclusion marks one of the most inspiring comebacks in modern cricket.
Afridi, aged 38 years and 299 days, replaced fast bowler Hasan Ali in Pakistan’s lineup for the second Test. The team opted for an extra spinner, expecting the pitch to favor turn. With this appearance, Afridi became the second-oldest Pakistani to make a Pakistan Test Debut, following Miran Bakhsh, who debuted at 47 in 1955.
Globally, Afridi’s debut is also notable. He is now the second-oldest Test debutant of the 21st century, behind Ireland’s Ed Joyce, who debuted at 39 in 2019. Afridi’s story is one of perseverance, marking a remarkable journey through Pakistan’s domestic cricket circuit, which spanned more than 15 years.
Since his first-class debut in 2009, Afridi has played 57 matches and taken 198 wickets at an average of 25.49. Despite limited opportunities, he continued to perform consistently in domestic tournaments, earning this long-awaited chance to represent his country in Test cricket.
In the Rawalpindi Test, Afridi joins Noman Ali and Sajid Khan to form a strong spin trio against South Africa. The team hopes this combination will help secure an advantage on the turning track.
For Asif Afridi, the Pakistan Test Debut is more than just a selection—it is the fulfillment of a lifelong dream. In an era dominated by young stars, his story stands as a testament to patience, determination, and passion for the game.
This milestone not only adds a new chapter to Pakistan’s cricketing history but also serves as an inspiration for aspiring players who continue to chase their dreams, no matter their age.
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