Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Asif Afridi has officially made his Test debut at the age of 38 years and 299 days, becoming the second-oldest player to debut for Pakistan in Test cricket. His selection marks a significant milestone in his long and determined cricketing journey.
If former cricketer Amir Elahi-who initially represented India before playing for Pakistan included in the list, then Asif ranks as the third-oldest Test debutant in the country’s history.
From Peshawar to the Test Arena
Born in Peshawar, Asif Afridi is known for his left-arm finger spin. His journey to the national Test team has been anything but easy. He began his first-class career in 2009, but after playing just three matches that season, he disappeared from the professional scene for several years.
It wasn’t until 2015 that Asif made a strong comeback, gradually proving himself as a consistent wicket-taker in domestic cricket. Over the years, he has featured in 57 first-class matches, claiming 198 wickets at an impressive average of 25.49. His dedication and persistence finally paid off with this long-awaited call to the national team.
A Comparison with South Africa’s Simon Harmer
Cricket analysts have drawn parallels between Asif Afridi and South African spinner Simon Harmer, who, at 36 years old, continues to perform at a high level. Harmer, with 992 wickets in 233 first-class matches at an average of 26.43, stands as an example of how age doesn’t define success in cricket.
Experts believe that Asif’s story reinforces the same message: performance, not age, earns opportunities. His late debut is seen as a testament to perseverance and skill rather than timing.
Receiving His Debut Cap from Shaheen Afridi
Before the start of the second Test between Pakistan and South Africa in Rawalpindi, fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi had the honor of presenting Asif with his Test debut cap. The emotional moment was witnessed by teammates and coaching staff, who cheered him on and wished him success in his new chapter.
According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the team management expressed high hopes for the experienced spinner, believing that his control and discipline could play a vital role in securing Pakistan’s series win.
Pakistan Leads the Series
The second and final Test of the ongoing Pakistan vs South Africa series is currently being played at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. Pakistan enters the match with a 1-0 lead, aiming to seal the series victory on home soil.
With Asif Afridi’s inclusion, Pakistan’s bowling attack gains valuable experience and variation, especially on turning tracks. Fans and cricket pundits alike are eager to see how the veteran spinner performs in his first taste of Test cricket.
A Message of Inspiration
Asif Afridi’s debut is more than just another milestone-it’s a story of resilience. His journey reminds aspiring cricketers that age is just a number and that talent, consistency, and hard work can open doors at any stage of life.
If he continues to bowl with the same sharpness and patience that defined his domestic career, Asif could become a valuable asset in Pakistan’s spin department for the foreseeable future.
