Shaheen Afridi Opens Up About On-Field Exchange with Matthew Breetzke
KARACHI: Pakistan’s left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi has addressed his intense on-field exchange with South African batter Matthew Breetzke during the Tri-Nation series match in Karachi on Wednesday.
During the game, Breetzke nearly collided with Shaheen while running between the wickets, leading the Pakistani bowler to confront him. A similar incident occurred later in the over when Breetzke once again ran close to Shaheen while taking a single.
The situation escalated into a verbal spat at the non-striker’s end, prompting the on-field umpire and Pakistani players to intervene and defuse the tension.
In a recent interview, Shaheen admitted that he had intentionally tried to unsettle Breetzke in a bid to claim his wicket. However, he clarified that the exchange was purely competitive and didn’t extend beyond the field.
“At first, Matthew didn’t respond. I kept teasing him, hoping to take his wicket. But whatever happened on the field stayed on the field,” Shaheen explained.
He also shared that after the match, both players shook hands and moved on from the incident. “We met, shook hands, and are now on good terms,” he added.
Beyond discussing the confrontation, Shaheen acknowledged Pakistan’s struggles in closing out matches efficiently.
“We recognize that we haven’t been performing well in the final overs,” he admitted.
Providing an update on his finger injury, the fast bowler reassured fans that his condition had improved. “The X-ray confirmed that everything is fine, although there is still some swelling. Hopefully, it will heal soon,” he said.
Shaheen also emphasized the commitment of players to their respective nations. “Every cricketer plays for their country, and we do the same,” he stated.
Addressing the role of the media, he highlighted its influence on the sport. “Media plays a crucial role. Whatever messages are shared on social media reach a global audience,” he noted.
He concluded by stressing team unity. “There’s no Babar, no Shaheen—only Pakistan. As long as negativity exists, progress will remain stagnant,” he asserted.
For context, Pakistan secured a place in the Tri-Nation series final by defeating South Africa by six wickets in a record 352-run chase, thanks to outstanding centuries from skipper Mohammad Rizwan and vice-captain Salman Ali Agha.
The duo put together a record-breaking 260-run partnership for the fourth wicket before Salman was dismissed by Lungi Ngidi in the penultimate over.
Salman led the scoring for Pakistan with 134 off 103 balls, including 16 fours and two sixes. Meanwhile, Rizwan remained unbeaten with 122 off 128 deliveries, hitting nine fours and three sixes.
Pakistan will now face New Zealand in the final on February 14 at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi.
