Pakistan’s pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi is steadily rediscovering his rhythm, offering Pakistan cricket fans a renewed sense of optimism ahead of the Asia Cup 2025. The left-arm quick, who has struggled to replicate his electrifying form from the 2021 T20 World Cup, impressed in the recently concluded tri-series with fiery spells that signaled his return to form.

Legendary pacer Wasim Akram, speaking ahead of the continental tournament, expressed excitement over Shaheen’s resurgence, calling him a key factor in Pakistan’s campaign. Shaheen first burst into global prominence during the T20 World Cup 2021 when he tore through India’s top order with a sensational new-ball spell.

However, a ligament injury shortly after that tournament derailed his momentum, sidelining him for several months. Though he made a comeback in the T20 World Cup 2022, Shaheen struggled to hit his previous heights, with inconsistency and injury concerns hampering his rhythm.

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After two challenging years in Pakistan cricket, the 24-year-old pacer now seems to be regaining his edge. His sharp pace and aggressive lengths against the West Indies and in the tri-series have fueled hopes of a strong showing in the Asia Cup.

Wasim Akram praised his progress, saying, “Shaheen Shah Afridi is definitely back in rhythm. He’s sprinting in every delivery, bowling at 140ks, and that’s good enough for me. I want him to focus on his bowling and batting. He’s young and gets upset quickly, but he must develop tunnel vision, focus, and let things settle themselves.”

Pakistan begins its Asia Cup campaign against Oman on September 12, followed by a blockbuster clash against arch-rivals India two days later. With Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan rested, captain Salman Agha has emphasised a bold, aggressive approach, stating that the squad is ready to challenge for the title despite missing senior stars.

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Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2025 Squad: Salman Agha (c), Abrar Ahmed, Faheem Ashraf, Fakhar Zaman, Haris Rauf, Hasan Ali, Hasan Nawaz, Hussain Talat, Khushdil Shah, Mohammad Haris (wk), Mohammad Nawaz, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Salman Mirza, Shaheen Afridi, Sufiyan Muqeem, Mohammad Wasim Jr.

With Shaheen firing again, Pakistan’s pace attack looks primed to set the tone for an exciting tournament.