West Indies legend Ian Bishop made a glowing comparison between Pakistan’s pace sensation Shaheen Shah Afridi and Australia’s Mitchell Starc during commentary in the third Test between Australia and the Caribbean side.
And it wasn’t just a throwaway remark. It was a well-earned compliment wrapped in respect for what Shaheen brings to the game.
A Compliment That Carries Weight
Bishop referred to Shaheen as “Baby Starc” during commentary, highlighting his tendency to attack the stumps with full, swinging deliveries, just like Starc.
The comparison came as Starc was putting on a masterclass of his own, tearing through the West Indies batting line-up with five wickets in just 15 balls. But Bishop was quick to highlight that Shaheen, too, carries that same instinct.
“It’s well known with Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Shah Afridi, at his best, watch and guard your stumps,” Bishop said.
Both left-armers, both tall and fiery, and both love nothing more than aiming for the base of the stumps early in the innings.
Following in Legendary Footsteps
Bishop didn’t stop at just modern-day comparisons. He took the opportunity to name-drop some true bowling greats like Glenn McGrath, Curtly Ambrose, and Courtney Walsh – icons known for their relentless accuracy and discipline.
“McGrath terrorised batters around the world by hitting that perfect length again and again. Ambrose and Walsh did it too,” Bishop reflected. “And now you see Josh Hazlewood following that method.”
But it was what he said next that truly stood out.
“Then there’s Shaheen Afridi, the rising star. I thought he was Baby Starc at his fittest. A different style, but the same intent.”
Shaheen’s Rise is No Coincidence
It’s easy to forget just how far Shaheen Afridi has come. Since making his international debut in 2018, the left-armer has already racked up 345 international wickets, including seven five-wicket hauls across formats.
His standout performances at the 2021 T20 World Cup played a huge role in Pakistan’s campaign, and his efforts earned him the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year award.
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