Pakistani pacer Naseem Shah achieved a personal milestone during the third T20I against New Zealand on Sunday, even though the match ended in a disappointing loss for Pakistan. Despite conceding 44 runs in his spell and claiming only one wicket, Shah crossed the coveted mark of 100 international wickets.
This remarkable feat is a testament to the young fast bowler’s talent and hard work. At just 22 years old, Shah has already established himself as a key member of Pakistan’s bowling attack across all formats. His journey to 100 wickets is impressive, with the breakdown being:
- 51 wickets in Test cricket from 28 innings
- 32 wickets in ODIs from 14 matches
- 17 wickets in T20Is from 21 innings
While Pakistan fell short in the third T20I, conceding a chase of 179 runs set by New Zealand, Shah’s individual achievement deserves recognition. Pakistan’s batting effort, with Shadab Khan’s quickfire 41 from 20 balls being the only notable contribution, couldn’t hold off a strong performance from New Zealand’s batting lineup. Mark Chapman’s blistering knock of 87 runs off just 42 deliveries ensured a comfortable seven-wicket victory for the visitors.
It’s important to note that New Zealand fielded a depleted squad for this series, missing several key players due to their participation in the IPL. Despite this, Pakistan’s bowling attack, which boasts the pace trio of Naseem Shah, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Amir, couldn’t contain the New Zealand batsmen.
This loss puts the five-match T20I series at 1-1, with the first match being washed out due to rain. While Naseem Shah’s milestone offers a positive note for Pakistan, the team will need to address their batting woes and bowling inconsistencies to bounce back in the remaining matches.
Also, see:
List of Pakistan women cricketers with 100 or more ODI wickets
