Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan reached a major milestone on Monday, surpassing cricket legend Shahid Afridi in T20 wickets as Sydney Thunder defeated Brisbane Heat by 34 runs in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Shadab starred with the ball, taking 4 wickets for 24 runs at Manuka Oval, a performance crucial to Thunder’s first win of BBL 15. His four wickets pushed his career T20 tally to 351, overtaking Afridi’s 347 and placing him fifth among Pakistan’s top wicket-takers in the format. He dismissed key batsmen including Colin Munro (18), Jack Wildermuth (14), and top-scorer Matt Renshaw (43), effectively breaking the Heat’s chase.
Shadab now ranks among Pakistan’s leading T20 bowlers as follows: Wahab Riaz – 413, Mohammad Amir – 409, Sohail Tanvir – 389, Imad Wasim – 377, Shadab Khan – 351, and Shahid Afridi – 347. Having played 325 T20 matches, he maintains an economy rate of 7.58. Globally, Afghanistan’s Rashid Khan holds the T20 record with 685 wickets.
With the bat, Sydney Thunder posted a competitive 193/4, thanks to a 124-run opening partnership. Matthew Gilkes scored 76 off 48 balls, supported by Sam Konstas’ 63 off 45, while Sam Billings added a quick 25 from 11 deliveries. Brisbane Heat, in reply, managed 159/6, unable to form significant partnerships despite Renshaw’s 43. Daniel Sams contributed with two wickets alongside Shadab, securing a comfortable win for Thunder.
Shadab Khan’s record-breaking performance not only highlights his growing stature in T20 cricket but also inspires his team as they aim to make a strong impact in BBL 15.
After recent shoulder surgery, Shadab Khan Resumes Training
