Shaheen Afridi Set to Lead Brisbane’s Pace Attack in the Absence of Johnson & Neser

Shaheen Shah Afridi is all set to lead the pace attack of Brisbane Heat in the first match of the BBL 15. The Pakistan speedster was the first pick of Brisbane Heat in the last draft, where Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan were also picked quickly by Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Renegades.

The pace attack of the Brisbane Heat will rely a lot on Shaheen, as the team is missing the services of Spencer Johnson and Michael Neser currently. This brings additional responsibility on Shaheen to take wickets upfront, because he has the experience and skills to give Heat an edge in the contest.

Speaking about the current situation, Shaheen admitted that both Johnson and Neser are experienced pacers, so the team will miss their absence. He expressed optimism to lead the Heat’s attack in their absence, as it is his primary job to deliver a strong performance with the ball.

"They [Johnson and Neser] are experienced bowlers for this team and I hope I play my role, that's why I'm here," said Shaheen Shah Afridi while talking to the reporters.

He further expressed confidence in performing well with the bat so the team can get some valuable runs down the order. He understands the importance of the league, so contributing in both departments is certainly on his radar in the upcoming matches.

"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." said Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Brisbane Heat will take on Melbourne Renegades in the second game of BBL 15 on December 15. This means fans can experience the Shaheen vs Rizwan clash in that match. The Pakistan speedster is well aware of this challenge, and he is looking forward to taking it on with full confidence.

"First game against Rizzy... a world-quality player. And Babar's here as well. 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." said Shaheen Shah Afridi.

Sharing Admiration for Mitchell Starc

Speaking about Mitchell Starc’s record-breaking performance in the Ashes, Shaheen said he is a legend who has proven his worth in Test cricket. The Pakistan pacer then shared his last conversation with Starc, in which he expressed his admiration for the Australian star’s spectacular spell in the 2025 ODI World Cup.

"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. I can say he's a role model for any youngster... he's been the best for Australia for many years." concluded Shaheen Shah Afridi.

The upcoming BBL season is expected to be highly thrilling because Pakistani stars are all set to light up its matches with their breathtaking performances. Babar Azam will be seen in action in the first match of the league, so fans are getting excited to see him in the Sixers’ colors on December 14.