Shaheen Eyes Top-Order Scalps in Anticipated BBL 2025 Debut

News Desk

Brisbane: Pakistan’s pace ace Shaheen Shah Afridi is raring to make an impact in his debut season with Brisbane Heat in the upcoming 15th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL), expressing his determination to dismiss some of the world’s top batters — including Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and David Warner.

In a recent podcast interview, the 25-year-old left-arm fast bowler was asked to name the most prized wicket among the three high-profile batters. Afridi, however, refused to choose just one.

“For me, it’s all three,” he said with a smile. “They’re all match-winners for their teams, and I’d love to get each of them out. That would be a great achievement.”

Afridi, known for his fiery new-ball spells and trademark celebrations, said he is particularly excited about the growing presence of Pakistani players in this year’s BBL, which he believes will add to the competitive spirit and fan engagement.

“This year, six or seven Pakistani players are participating in the BBL, so it’s going to be exciting,” he said. “We’ve just played together in the PSL — Babar, Rizwan, Shadab — and now we’ll be facing each other. It’s a fun challenge and great for the fans.”

Afridi believes the presence of top Pakistani stars will also energize the large South Asian diaspora in Australia.

“The Pakistani community in Australia always shows a lot of love,” he added. “I think the crowd will really enjoy it when we come up against each other. Hopefully, we’ll deliver some memorable performances.”

The former Pakistan T20I captain is also hoping to recreate his trademark first-over breakthroughs in the BBL.

“If I can strike in the first over again, that would be perfect,” he said. “The celebration will be full of energy, and if the fans — both Australian and Pakistani — are cheering ‘Afridi’ from the stands, that’s going to be an incredible feeling.”

Afridi also had glowing praise for teammate-turned-opponent Babar Azam, calling him one of the most consistent performers in international cricket.

“Babar is a top-class batter — always delivering, always scoring,” he said. “People admire him because he performs on the biggest stages, and I hope he continues in that same flow. He’s a big name in world cricket.”

Looking ahead, Afridi expressed a strong desire to help Brisbane Heat clinch the BBL title, adding that winning a trophy in his debut season would be “really special.”

“In the PSL, I’ve been part of three trophy-winning teams, and that feeling is always amazing,” he said. “It’s not just about the players — it’s about the environment, the management giving you the space to enjoy your cricket. Brisbane Heat is a solid team, and I’m really hopeful we can lift the trophy together.”

BBL 2025 promises to be a thrilling season with star-studded clashes and a strong Pakistani contingent set to light up the competition.