KINGSTON (Kashmir English): Former West Indies fast bowler and renowned commentator Ian Bishop has heaped praise on Pakistan’s left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, calling him a “baby Starc” for his powerful bowling style that resembles Australian star Mitchell Starc.
Ian Bishop, speaking in commentary in the match between Australia and West Indies, referred to Shaheen as a “Baby Starc,” praising his knack for attacking the stumps in a style reminiscent of the Aussie spearhead, who had just ripped through the West Indies lineup with a blistering five-wicket haul in just 15 deliveries.
“It’s well known with Mitchell Starc and Shaheen Shah Afridi, at his best, watch and guard your stumps,” said Bishop, highlighting how both pacers pose a consistent threat with the new ball by targeting the base of the wickets.
The veteran broadcaster also paid homage to legends of the past, including Glenn McGrath, Curtly Ambrose, and Courtney Walsh, crediting their relentless accuracy and discipline for the havoc they caused across generations.
“McGrath terrorised batters around the world by hitting that perfect length again and again. Ambrose and Walsh did it too, and now you see Josh Hazlewood following that method,” Ian Bishop added.
“But then there’s Shaheen Afridi, the rising star. I thought he was baby Starc at his fittest. A different style, but the same intent.”
Shaheen has built an impressive resume since making his international debut against the West Indies in 2018.
Across formats, the left-armer has already claimed 345 international wickets, including seven five-fors, and continues to be a central figure in Pakistan’s bowling attack.
The nickname “baby Starc” came as a compliment to Shaheen’s left-arm angle and deadly yorkers, which remind fans of the Australian pacer. Ian Bishop highlighted that even though Shaheen is still young, he already carries the hunger and aggression of a top-class bowler.
His standout 2021 campaign earned him the ICC Men’s Cricketer of the Year award, with his match-winning spells in the T20 World Cup that year.
Fans and cricket analysts alike have welcomed Ian Bishop’s remarks, seeing them as recognition of the bright future that lies ahead for Shaheen Afridi.
