Asia Cup 2025: ‘No zip, no pace, no discipline’ - Priyank Panchal slams Shaheen Afridi as India demolish Pakistan

Published - 22 Sept 2025, 14:08 IST | Updated - 22 Sept 2025, 14:08 IST

Former Gujarat captain Priyank Panchal questioned whether Shaheen Afridi has lived up to the hype surrounding him, pointing out the lack of pace, zip, and consistency. The left-arm pacer faced widespread criticism after a disappointing bowling performance in Pakistan’s Asia Cup Super 4 clash against India on Sunday, September 21.

Afridi conceded 40 runs in 3.5 overs in the crucial encounter, a performance that drew sharp reactions on social media. The Super 4 match was held in Dubai, a venue where Afridi had previously troubled top Indian batters such as Rohit Sharma, Virat Kohli, and KL Rahul during Pakistan’s memorable win in 2021.

“I’ll always fail to understand the hype around Shaheen Afridi. Classic case of a few good deliveries years ago lengthening someone’s faltering career. No zip, no pace, no discipline. I’ve seen first-class bowlers deliver better spells with more consistency,” Panchal wrote on X.

Sehwag urges Abhishek to convert 70s into big hundreds

Since his memorable innings, Afridi’s career trajectory appears to have dipped. His pace has become inconsistent, and the swing that once made him a formidable force is noticeably absent. Abhishek Sharma immediately capitalised on this, hooking a six off Afridi’s first delivery and setting the tone for a dominant innings.

Sharma scored 74 off 39 balls, including six fours and five sixes, anchoring India’s chase of a tricky total and helping the Men in Blue secure a six-wicket victory. The match also saw heated moments, with Afridi exchanging words with Shubman Gill after conceding boundaries and late Haris Rauf getting into a heated exchange with Abhishek. While Pakistani players initiated most of the skirmishes, Indian players responded firmly with their performance, demonstrating composure amid the tension.

Afridi’s performance stood in stark contrast to India’s bowlers, who have consistently delivered under pressure. With his expensive spell and lack of discipline on display, many criticised his lack of energy and pace. Meanwhile, India’s batters, led by the left-handed opener, ensured a comfortable win in a contest that was both thrilling and heated enough.