Shaheen Shah Afridi, Brisbane Heat’s new fast bowler has praised Mitchell Starc, calling him a role model who helped shape the way he bowls.
Pakistan’s premier pacer will make his Big Bash League debut on Monday and said Starc’s 2015 World Cup performance taught him to bowl fuller and swing the ball.
Shaheen explained that he watched every delivery Starc bowled during that tournament while he was in Pakistan’s Under-16 team.
“He’s a legend,” Shaheen said before Brisbane’s match against the Melbourne Renegades. “I tried to follow his style, and that’s why I bowl fuller now.”
He added that Starc’s attacking bowling plan became the base of his own career. Shaheen also said he told Starc in a recent chat that the 2015 World Cup inspired him. “For any young fast bowler, Mitchell Starc is a role model,” he said.
Starc, now 35, is in top form, taking 18 wickets in two Ashes Tests. His latest success pushed him past Wasim Akram in Test wickets, making him one of the most successful left-arm pacer in history.
Shaheen, who has taken 126 wickets in T20 internationals, said he is excited to represent Brisbane in the BBL. He enjoys bowling on the Gabba’s fast, bouncy pitch, where he has played well for Pakistan.
With teammate Spencer Johnson ruled out of the season due to a back injury, Shaheen will take on added responsibility for the Heat. “I hope I can play my role for the team,” he said.
