Shaheen Shah Afridi Clinches Top ODI Bowler Spot, Creates History

1 November, (VNI) According to media reports, on Wednesday, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Pakistan's leading fast bowler, achieved a historic milestone by claiming the top spot in ODI bowling rankings for the first time in his illustrious career. This noteworthy achievement followed his team's triumph over Bangladesh in the World Cup, where he displayed exceptional skill by securing three wickets for a mere 23 runs.
During the match, Afridi also notched his 100th ODI wicket, a remarkable feat in only his 51st game, making him the third fastest to accomplish this landmark in the format. Moreover, he holds the distinction of being the fastest pacer to do so. Presently, he shares the title of highest wicket-taker in the competition with Australia's Adam Zampa, amassing an impressive 16 wickets in seven matches, boasting an average of 19.93 and an economy rate of 5.22, including an impressive five-wicket haul.
In the realm of batting, Pakistan's skipper, Babar Azam, leads the chart. Meanwhile, India's Shubman Gill, Rohit Sharma, and Virat Kohli hold the second, fifth, and seventh positions, respectively.
Among the all-rounders, Bangladesh's Shakib Al Hasan reigns supreme.
In other rankings, India's Hardik Pandya slipped to the 11th position, while Ravindra Jadeja maintained his position at 13th. Pakistan's Shadab Khan experienced a minor drop, falling a couple of slots to 20th.
On Tuesday, opener Fakhar Zaman made a triumphant return, displaying an aggressive half-century after Shaheen Shah Afridi's impressive performance. This dynamic duo played a pivotal role in Pakistan's victory over Bangladesh in the Cricket World Cup 2023, securing a seven-wicket win and keeping their slim semifinal hopes alive in Kolkata.
Shaheen led the three-pronged pace attack with exceptional figures of 9-1-23-3 as Pakistan dismissed Bangladesh for a modest 204 in 45.1 overs.
Fakhar, who missed five out of six matches due to a knee injury, exhibited remarkable prowess by hitting seven sixes and three fours in his 74-ball 81. Additionally, Abdullah Shafique delivered a rapid 68 off 69 balls (9x4, 2x6), setting a formidable foundation with the newly-formed opening pair, amassing an impressive 128-run partnership.