In a story that has captured the imagination of cricket fans nationwide, 38-year-old left-arm spinner Asif Afridi made his Test debut for Pakistan during the second Test against South Africa in Rawalpindi. The veteran, who has spent nearly two decades in domestic cricket, received his Test cap from team captain Babar Azam in an emotional pre-match ceremony.
Afridi’s selection reflects a growing openness by selectors to reward domestic consistency rather than just youth potential. Over his long career, he has taken more than 500 first-class wickets and has been a reliable performer for Khyber Pakhtunkhwa in the domestic circuit. Despite his performances, he had never been seriously considered for national selection — until now.
“I never gave up,” Afridi said in a brief statement after receiving his cap. “It has taken years of hard work, discipline, and belief. Wearing the Pakistan Test shirt is a dream come true.”
The decision to field Afridi came as Pakistan looked to strengthen its spin department on a dry and turning Rawalpindi pitch. Injuries to frontline bowlers and a desire to add variety to the attack created the opening that finally allowed Afridi to step onto the international stage.
Former cricketers praised the selection, calling it a refreshing change from the trend of picking young, inexperienced players for long-format cricket. “He brings maturity, control, and temperament—things you can’t teach overnight,” said former captain Misbah-ul-Haq. “This is a great message for domestic players that hard work is eventually rewarded.”
Pakistan’s cricket selectors, led by Wahab Riaz, have also defended the move as part of a balanced squad strategy. “Our aim is to field the best possible team, regardless of age,” Wahab said. “Afridi has been among the top wicket-takers for years.”
Fans on social media have rallied behind the 38-year-old, calling him “the people’s cricketer” and celebrating his perseverance. His debut also raises questions about Pakistan’s domestic talent pipeline and the timing of player promotions to the national team.
As Pakistan faces South Africa in a crucial match that could impact its position in the ICC World Test Championship standings, Afridi’s story adds a compelling human element to the contest — a reminder that dreams in cricket don’t have an expiry date.
