Afridi set to play in T20 Blast for Hampshire
Shaheen Shah Afridi will play for Hampshire in their remaining T20 Blast matches.
The 19-year-old Pakistan fast bowler is set to make his debut in tonight’s fourth South group game against Surrey at The Kia Oval (6.30pm).
Afridi is fresh from having played in all three T20 internationals against England at Old Trafford in the past week.
He bounced back from conceding 44 runs in 31.1 overs in the second game to take 2-28 as Pakistan drew the series 1-1 on Tuesday.
Afridi has also taken 35 wickets in 11 Tests for Pakistan, and 40 in 19 ODIs, with a best of 6-35 in last summer’s World Cup against Bangladesh at Lord’s.
He played in all three Tests against England this summer, taking five wickets at 51.60.
Afridi’s availability is a huge boost to Hampshire, who have been shorn of a host of star names for this summer’s fixture list.
Overseas trio Kyle Abbott, Fidel Edwards and Rilee Rossouw have been unable to play, while Australian spinner Nathan Lyon’s red-ball contract was torn up due to the pandemic.
In addition, Liam Dawson, Aneurin Donald and Keith Barker have all been injured at some point, while James Vince has yet to play due to England and family commitments.
Afridi will lead a Hampshire pace attack which also includes Chris Wood, James Fuller, Ryan Stevenson and Ian Holland.
Despite his young age, Afridi has played 45 T20 matches and taken 57 wickets.
He was the second leading wickettaker, with 13, in the Pakistan T20 League prior to its abandonment when the pandemic struck in early March.
‘We're delighted that Shaheen can join us for the remainder of the Vitality Blast,’ said Hampshire director of cricket Giles White.
‘The skill he possesses with the white ball in hand will add depth and an extra dimension to our side.
‘Since the confirmation of the 2020 fixtures, we have been working hard to ensure that Shaheen could play some part in our summer.
‘We hope he can make an impact in the seven or so games he has with us.’
Afridi will make his Hampshire debut in south London in front of spectators as 2,500 Surrey members are being allowed in as one of the government’s pilot schemes.
All spectators will be situated within the 1845 Stand with two seats between each household or social bubble and only alternate rows will be used.
Surrey are still searching for their opening T20 Blast win after losing to Kent on Tuesday. South African batsman Hashim Amla top scored with 75 on his first T20 appearance for Surrey since 2014.
Amla spent a period with Hampshire in 2018, but did not play in the T20s. He appeared four times for Surrey six years ago, making two half-centuries.