5 Memorable Innings by Shahid Afridi
Lahore: Shahid Afridi is undoubtedly one of the most destructive batsmen ever produced by Pakistan, and on his day, he could single-handedly demolish the opposition. Here are five of his most unforgettable batting performances:
1. Fastest ODI century
Afridi was just 16 years old and playing in his second ODI when he scored the fastest century in the history of the format, off just 37 balls. He was up against Sri Lanka, the reigning world champions, and he took apart their bowling attack with a display of power and aggression that was simply breathtaking.
2. 141 vs India in Chennai Test (1999)
Afridi was not considered to be a good Test batsman, but he produced one of the finest innings ever played by a Pakistani in the longest format of the game. He came to the crease with Pakistan in trouble at 16 for 2, and he proceeded to score 141 off 228 balls, helping his team to a first-innings lead.
3. 102 off 45 balls against India in Mohali 2005 ODI
Pakistan were playing an ODI series in India, and the match was evenly poised at 2-2. Afridi came to the crease with Pakistan needing 256 to win, and he proceeded to take the game away from India with an incredible display of hitting. He scored 102 off just 45 balls, including 12 sixes.
4. 156 vs India in Faisalabad Test 2006
Afridi’s highest score in international cricket came against India in a Test match in Faisalabad. He scored 156 off 128 balls, hitting 16 fours and six sixes. It was a masterful innings that helped Pakistan to win the match by an innings and 12 runs.
5. Half-century against Sri Lanka in the 2009 World T20 final4
Afridi played several match-winning innings for Pakistan, but none was more important than his half-century in the final of the 2009 World Cup T20. He came to the crease with Pakistan needing 138 to win, and he scored 50 off 38 balls, including four sixes. His innings helped Pakistan to win the match and lift the trophy.
These are just a few of the many memorable innings that Shahid Afridi played during his illustrious career. He was a true all-rounder who could win matches with both bat and ball, and he will go down as one of the greatest cricketers of all time.
