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July 16, 2025

Ian Bishop Compliments Shaheen Afridi, Calling Him The Next Starc

Ian Bishop Compliments Shaheen Afridi, Calling Him The Next Starc
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Former West Indies pacer and respected commentator Ian Bishop has praised Pakistan’s fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, calling him a younger version of Australia’s left-arm speedster Mitchell Starc.

Speaking on a recent cricket podcast, Bishop compared Afridi’s bowling style to Starc’s, especially in the way he swings the new ball and attacks the stumps. “Shaheen reminds me of a young Mitchell Starc,” Bishop said. “That full, fast, swinging delivery—it’s deadly. I call him ‘Baby Starc’ in the commentary box.”

Afridi has been a standout performer for Pakistan across formats in recent years. Known for his ability to strike early in T20s and Tests, the 24-year-old has grown into one of the most feared left-arm bowlers in world cricket. His recent performances in the Zimbabwe Tri-Nation Series and against Ireland earlier this year have further boosted his reputation.

Bishop also praised Afridi’s growth and maturity as a bowler. “He’s not just relying on raw pace anymore. He’s learning how to read batters and bowl with plans. That’s what makes him special,” Bishop added.

The nickname ‘Baby Starc’ has already caught on with fans, especially on social media, where clips comparing Afridi and Starc’s yorkers have gone viral. While some fans joked that Afridi already has a better record in Asia than Starc, others welcomed the comparison, saying it proves how far the Pakistani pacer has come.

Shaheen, who recently took over leadership duties in Pakistan’s bowling group, thanked Bishop in a short social media post, saying: “Honoured to be mentioned by a legend. Still learning and improving every day.”

With Pakistan set to face West Indies and then enter the Champions Trophy build-up later this year, Afridi will remain a central figure in their bowling attack—and perhaps now, a “Baby Starc” with a legacy of his own to create.


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