Afridi Lightheartedly Warns Rauf Ahead of BBL Debut

Pakistani left-arm fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has playfully cautioned his teammate and fellow speedster Haris Rauf prior to his inaugural Big Bash League (BBL) season.

In a recent interview, Afridi, who is set to represent Brisbane Heat in the competition, jokingly advised Rauf to avoid bowling to him during the BBL.

“I hope Haris Rauf doesn’t consider bowling against me [in BBL]. If he attempts it, I intend to hit him for numerous sixes,” Afridi remarked with a smile.

Earlier, following his signing with the Brisbane Heat after the draft, Afridi was questioned about which batter’s wicket he would value the most among Babar Azam, Steve Smith, and David Warner.

Afridi opted not to favour any one player, highlighting the significance of all three.

“To me, all three are important,” Shaheen stated. “I wouldn’t single out just one because each of their wickets is crucial. They are vital players for their respective teams, and I would be delighted to dismiss any of them.”

The former T20I captain also conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the increasing number of Pakistani players participating in BBL 15, including prominent names like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shadab Khan.

“Indeed, this year, six or seven Pakistani players are involved in the Big Bash, so I’m eagerly anticipating the opportunity to compete against them,” he shared.

“We recently played together in the PSL, and these individuals are renowned figures who have consistently performed for Pakistan over the years. It presents a significant challenge, and I believe the fans, especially the Pakistani supporters, will thoroughly enjoy it whenever we face Babar, Rizwan, and others. Hopefully, we can deliver an excellent performance in front of a large audience,” he added.

The two-time PSL-winning captain also articulated his aspiration to secure a title with Brisbane Heat, underscoring the importance of team dynamics and enjoying the sport.

“Winning another trophy would be incredible. It would make my first season even more memorable. In the PSL, we secured three titles, and it’s primarily about the players and how the management empowers you to relish your cricket,” he stated.

“That’s the crucial aspect. I’m optimistic – Brisbane Heat is a formidable team, and I’m excited about the prospect of winning another championship with them,” he concluded.

Notably, Afridi was chosen as the top overall selection in the BBL Season 15 Draft, conducted on June 19, with Brisbane Heat securing his services.

A majority of the franchises demonstrated interest in acquiring national team players, with wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan selected as the third platinum pick, and England’s Luke Wood chosen second.

This will represent Shaheen Afridi’s debut in the BBL, although he has previously participated in prominent leagues such as the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL), International League T20 (ILT20), and The Hundred.

Former Pakistan T20I captain Mohammad Rizwan has been signed by the Melbourne Renegades, while right-arm pacer Haris Rauf remains with the Melbourne Stars.

Former Pakistan U19 all-rounder Hassan Khan is also rejoining the Melbourne Renegades.

Leg-spinner and Pakistan’s current T20I vice-captain Shadab Khan has been acquired by Sydney Thunder. Star batter Babar Azam was pre-signed by the Sydney Sixers before the official draft and is poised to make his BBL debut.

In addition, right-arm pacer Hasan Ali has been enlisted by the Adelaide Strikers.