Shaheen Afridi Credits Mitchell Starc Influence Ahead of BBL Role for Heat

The Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi acknowledged Mitchell Starc’s inspiration as he prepared to lead the Brisbane Heat attack.

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has arrived in Australia to play for the Brisbane Heat in the BBL. He is set to lead the team’s attack following injuries and Test call-ups.

Afridi was the Heat’s first pick in June’s overseas draft. His role is crucial after Spencer Johnson’s season-ending injury and Michael Neser’s absence for Test duty. The 25-year-old Pakistan ODI captain will make his BBL debut against Melbourne Renegades on Monday.

“They [Johnson and Neser] are experienced bowlers for this team and I hope I play my role, that’s why I’m here. In all three [disciplines]… fielding, and if I need, chipping in batting as well, I’ll give my best. It’s not a small league and [is] well-renowned as the best league and… the best cricket with the best players,” Afridi said.

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His first match will be against teammate Mohammad Rizwan. He is among several Pakistani stars in the tournament, including Babar Azam and Haris Rauf.

“First game against Rizzy… a world-quality player. And Babar’s here as well,” Afridi said. “They know me, I know them. Hopefully we play some good cricket here. And we’re really hopeful we get the Pakistani support, and the Asian community as a whole.”

Afridi also spoke about the influence of Australia’s Mitchell Starc. He recalled watching Starc during Pakistan’s development tour of Australia years ago.

“He [Starc] is a legend and last time when we chatted, I told him I watched his 2015 [World Cup] bowling spell and that’s why I bowled fuller to the batsman,” Afridi said. “I can say he’s a role model for any youngster… he’s been the best for Australia for many years.”

Starc recently surpassed Wasim Akram as Test cricket’s most prolific left-arm fast bowler. Afridi called Akram a great, but highlighted Starc’s personal impact on his career. Afridi has taken 126 wickets in 96 T20Is for Pakistan.