Bishop Urges Batters to Protect Stumps Against Starc and Shaheen

KINGSTOWN: Former West Indies cricketer and respected commentator Ian Bishop drew parallels between Pakistani left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi and his Australian counterpart Mitchell Starc on Tuesday. He playfully dubbed Afridi ‘Baby Starc’ due to his similar ability to target the stumps.

Bishop made these remarks during his analysis of the third and final day of the third Test match between the West Indies and Australia. Starc had dismantled the West Indies’ top and middle order with an impressive five-wicket performance in a mere 15 deliveries.

Acknowledging Starc’s skill, Bishop advised batsmen to be vigilant and safeguard their wickets against both Starc and Shaheen.

Guarding Against Stumps

“With Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Shah Afridi at their best, it’s crucial to watch and protect your stumps,” Bishop emphasized during his commentary.

Ian Bishop also referenced legendary pacers such as Australia’s Glenn McGrath, along with West Indies’ Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh, noting how they consistently troubled batters with their accurate length.

“What I appreciate about the global game is how Glenn McGrath consistently pressured batters worldwide with his precise length. Curtly Ambrose and Courtney Walsh employed very similar strategies. And now we see Josh Hazlewood doing the same,” Bishop elaborated.

Shaheen Afridi’s Rising Stature

“Then there’s Shaheen Afridi, a promising young talent. I considered him a ‘baby Starc’ when he’s at his peak. Just a different style.”

Shaheen debuted internationally against the West Indies in 2018. To date, he has played in 31 Tests, 64 ODIs, and 79 T20Is for Pakistan, amassing 345 wickets across all formats, including seven instances of taking five or more wickets in an innings.

Shaheen was also honored as the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year in 2021, recognized for his consistent performances across various formats. His standout performances during the T20 World Cup 2021 were particularly noteworthy, helping Pakistan reach the semi-finals.