Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Asif Afridi received his long-awaited Test cap from star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi ahead of the second Test against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
It marked an inspiring milestone for the 38-year-old spinner, who has spent years excelling in Pakistan’s domestic circuit. With 198 wickets in 57 first-class matches, Asif’s consistent performances finally earned him a well-deserved place in the national Test side.
With his debut, he became Pakistan’s second-oldest Test debutant at 38 years and 299 days, making him the oldest player to receive a Test cap for the country since Miran Baksh, who debuted at the age of 47 in 1955.
The cap presentation by Shaheen Afridi symbolized unity and respect within the Pakistan camp, as younger players celebrated the debut of a seasoned professional whose persistence and discipline defined his cricketing journey. Analysts and fans alike praised the moment as a heartwarming reminder that dedication and performance can triumph over age.
Asif Afridi’s journey continues to inspire countless domestic players across Pakistan, proving that perseverance and hard work can eventually turn long-held dreams into reality.
