Shaheen Afridi in BAN vs PAK 1st Test (Source: AFP and X)
Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi once again found himself at the centre of controversy during the first Test against Bangladesh in Mirpur. The incident took place on Day 4 of the ongoing Test match at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium and quickly became one of the most discussed moments of the game.
Apart from the controversial incident, this first Test match between Bangladesh and Pakistan has been special for Shaheen Afridi. He became only the 9th bowler for Pakistan to complete 400 wickets in his international career.
Shaheen Afridi's unusual action in BAN vs PAK 1st Test
The moment occurred when Bangladesh were attempting to extend their lead in the second innings. Cameras captured Shaheen Afridi appearing to push the ball under his shoe, raising concerns about whether he was trying to alter the shape or condition of the ball.
The umpires reacted quickly, taking the ball away from the pacer for a detailed inspection. After carefully examining it for scratches, cuts, or other unusual damage, the officials concluded there was nothing serious.
The same ball was then returned to Shaheen Afridi, who completed his over without further interruption.
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Despite no action being taken by the officials, the visuals spread rapidly among fans, with many questioning whether the Pakistan speedster had crossed the line.
Watch the video here:
Fresh debate revives memories of PSL 2026 incident
The latest controversy has also reminded fans of another incident involving Shaheen Afridi earlier this year during the Pakistan Super League 2026 season.
During a match between Lahore Qalandars and Karachi Kings, Shaheen Afridi's side was penalised five runs after the umpires believed the condition of the ball had been unfairly changed.
That dramatic contest took place at the Gaddafi Stadium, where Karachi Kings were handed five extra runs shortly before the final over of the chase. The penalty proved decisive in the result of the match, increasing criticism around ball-management practices within the Lahore camp.
Bangladesh pushes Pakistan on Final Day
Away from the controversy, the Test match itself has remained highly competitive. Bangladesh produced another solid batting effort after scoring 413 runs in the first innings with a significant contribution from captain Najmul Hossain Shanto, who scored 101 runs off 130 balls.
Pakistan, in their 1st inning, made 386/10; the star of the Pakistan's batting was debutant Azan Awais. The 21-year-old batter made valuable contributions, scoring 103 runs off 165 balls.
The Pakistan middle-order also made a contribution, with Abdullah Fazal, Salman Ali Agha and Mohammad Rizwan making significant contributions.
In Bangladesh’s second innings, captain Najmul Hossain Shanto once again led from the front. After the hosts slipped to 23/2, Shanto added a crucial 105-run partnership with Mominul Haque, helping Bangladesh take firm control of the match.
Mominul scored 56 and also completed the milestone of 5,000 Test runs during his innings. Bangladesh later declared on 240/9, setting Pakistan a challenging target of 268 runs to win the opening Test on Day 5.
It is important to note that in the 2nd innings, Pakistan has already lost the wicket of opener Imam-ul-Haq. So, things are not going to be easy for the Shan Masood and his men on Day 5 to win the Test match.
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