Shaheen Shah Afridi Ready to Shine in BBL 15 – Eyes on Dismissing Top Stars

Pakistan’s star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is full of excitement as he prepares for his debut in the 15th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL). The 25-year-old left-arm pacer, known for his explosive bowling and energetic celebrations, shared his thoughts in a recent podcast interview — and made it clear he’s aiming big.

Shaheen said he is especially eager to take on some of the world’s top batters, including Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and David Warner. When asked which of these three wickets he would value the most, he gave a humble yet competitive response.

“For me, it’s all three,” he said with a smile. “I wouldn’t pick just one because all of them are very important players for their teams. Getting any of them out would be a big moment, and I’d love to dismiss all three.”

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Shaheen will be representing Brisbane Heat this season, and he’s thrilled to be part of such a competitive tournament. He also welcomed the participation of fellow Pakistani players in the league.

“This time, around six or seven Pakistani players will be playing in the BBL, and I’m really looking forward to that,” he said. “We’ve just played together in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), and guys like Babar, Rizwan, and Shadab have been doing great for Pakistan over the years. It’s always a challenge and fun to play against teammates.”

Shaheen believes that the involvement of Pakistani players will make the tournament even more exciting — especially for the fans in Australia.

“I think the crowd, especially the Pakistani community in Australia, will love seeing us play,” he said. “Whenever we’re up against stars like Babar and Rizwan, it’ll be thrilling. Hopefully, we’ll entertain the fans with some great cricket.”

Fired Up for the First Over

Known for his ability to strike early in the innings, Shaheen expressed his desire to make an impact from the very beginning of the games.

“It would be really special if I could get a wicket in the first over again,” he said. “I always put my full energy into the celebration — and with the crowd behind me, that moment would be unforgettable.”

He also shared how much he values the energy and support from fans, whether they’re from Pakistan or Australia.

“I feel even more motivated when fans cheer me on. If the crowd starts shouting ‘Afridi! Afridi!’ when I’m running in to bowl, that just lifts me up. It makes me want to give even more for the team.”

High Praise for Babar Azam

Despite his competitive spirit, Shaheen had nothing but respect for Babar Azam, his national teammate and close friend. He called Babar one of the most consistent and admired batters in the world today.

“Babar is a top performer, no matter where he plays,” Shaheen said. “He always delivers on big stages. People love to watch him bat, and he keeps scoring runs wherever he goes. He’s one of the best, and I hope he keeps performing like this for a long time. He’s a huge name in international cricket.”

Hoping to Win Big with Brisbane Heat

Looking ahead, Afridi said he has high hopes for a strong season with Brisbane Heat and dreams of lifting the BBL trophy in his very first season.

“Winning a trophy with Brisbane Heat would be amazing,” he said. “That would make my first BBL experience even more special. In the PSL, I’ve been part of three title-winning teams, and I know how important it is when the management supports you and helps you enjoy your cricket.”

He praised Brisbane Heat as a solid team with good potential.

“That’s the key thing — the players and the environment. Brisbane Heat are a strong side, and I believe we have a great chance this year. I’m really hopeful we can bring home the trophy.”

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