ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has named fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi as the leading wicket-taker in the upcoming India-Pakistan clash at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Afridi shared his prediction during a panel discussion with former Indian and Pakistani cricketers, hosted by a prominent Indian sports channel.
The star-studded panel included Indian cricket legends Yuvraj Singh and Navjot Singh Sidhu, along with former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq. The panel was asked to answer six key questions in the lead-up to the much-anticipated high-voltage match between Pakistan and India.
When asked about the leading wicket-taker for the match, Afridi confidently endorsed Shaheen Shah Afridi, citing his impressive track record since his debut in 2018. Shaheen’s memorable performance against India in the 2021 T20 World Cup, where he claimed 3 wickets for 31 runs, was a standout moment for the young pacer, and Afridi believes he will continue his dominance in the upcoming clash.
On the other hand, Inzamam-ul-Haq backed Haris Rauf to claim the top spot for Pakistan, while Yuvraj Singh supported India’s Mohammed Shami as the leading wicket-taker. Sidhu predicted that an Indian spinner might emerge as the highest wicket-taker in the match.
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Afridi also shared his thoughts on the psychological aspects of the contest, stressing that attitude and body language will play a key role in deciding the winner. Reflecting on the 2011 World Cup semifinal, Afridi recalled how India’s confidence and body language on the field signaled to Pakistan that they might struggle to chase the target after their first wicket fell.
“It’s all about confidence and how you overpower the other team,” Afridi said, emphasizing that the team’s mindset is crucial in high-pressure matches like the India-Pakistan contest.
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