Shaheen Afridi vs England. [Source - AFP/X]Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler, produced a magical spell against England in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2026. Defending 165 in Pallekele, Shaheen Afridi struck three early wickets in the powerplay, dismantling England’s top order and breaking the backbone of their chase within minutes of the innings beginning.Shaheen Afridi had been under heavy criticism from fans and Pakistan cricket experts after a dip in form, including inconsistent outings earlier in the tournament. Questions were raised about his rhythm and impact with the new ball. However, on the biggest stage like that of the Super 8, the 25-year-old responded in style when his team needed him most. Even though Pakistan fell short in their must-win Super 8 clash, Shaheen Afridi kept their semi-final hopes alive with a fiery three-wicket burst and later dismissed centurion Harry Brook, finishing with four wickets and earning praise for a spirited, statement performance under pressure.Danish 🇵🇸 @danex_22 At least Shaheen knows how to make a comeback after being dropped and then there's shameless Babar Azam. Devilish Angel @DAngel987 Shaheen ka tu come back ho gaya...nhi hua tu babar ka Sam Roy @SamRoy84 Shaheen Afridi has bowled very well today..Yes, Eng could have played him a lot better but he has bowled very well.. Silly Point @FarziCricketer Getting out on nothing deliveries against Shaheen. You are a joke, England. Fawads Gaylestorm🏏 @AlfaaaazMere Shaheen making everyone eat their words Where's the apology form? maxpool @maxxpool shaheen shah afridi. I am sorry for every bad word ever that I have uttered against you . @rijaayy Shaheen ab team se agly 10 saal na jaye 🤡🤡 mubarak @curseddposts Shaheen Shah is on an absolute role. He's moving mad. Doubted. Delivered. Eagle! 🦅 Ali 𓃗 @mountain_lad_ Shaheen i judged you too harshly 🙏🏻 Noorish Khan @noorishsays_ That's the Shaheen Afridi we all know! Goes on to show that he's had a deep ponder over the last few days! Sensational! 🙌🇵🇰🏏 #PAKvENG Omer Khan @OmerKhan421014 Shaheen u beauty u are our premium fast bowler u will forever remain our premium fast bowler Syed Hammad @SyedHam61114487 SHAHEEN SHAH AFRIDI IS BACK🦅❣️ Also Read: Watch- Usman Tariq Tributes Pakistan Veterans; Drops Catch With Clowning ActFans Apologise as Shaheen Afridi Rips Through England’s Top Order EarlyShaheen Afridi made his comeback to the XI and produced a stunning spell against England, dismissing Phil Salt off the very first ball, followed by Jos Buttler and Jacob Bethell, a section of fans instantly changed their tone online. Many admitted they had been too harsh, flooding social media with apology posts and renewed praise. Several fans openly said they were “eating their words” after criticising him throughout the tournament. Defending 165 in Pallekele was never going to be easy, and they acknowledged how crucial those early breakthroughs were. Without that powerplay burst, England could have comfortably controlled the chase, putting Pakistan on the backfoot early.Others pointed out that big players step up in big moments, and Shaheen Afridi did exactly that. In a must-win clash, he produced impact when it mattered most. The internet was filled with posts calling it perfect timing, with fans praising his courage, composure, and match awareness. Shaheen Afridi’s Fiery Spell Sparks Fans to Question Babar Azam’s Comeback Shaheen Afridi’s explosive new-ball spell against England not only rocked the opposition but also reignited debates among fans. Dismissing top-order batters in quick succession, Afridi reminded everyone of his match-winning ability, even after a period of inconsistent form, proving why he remains a key Pakistan cricket mainstay. Fans quickly turned the spotlight onto Babar Azam, questioning when he would make such comeback on the field. Many highlighted that while Afridi delivered under pressure, Pakistan also needs its batting cornerstone back in form. Supporters stressed that both players are crucial for Pakistan’s success, with Afridi’s redemption emphasizing the urgency for Babar’s comeback. Shaheen Afridi surpasses Haris Rauf, becomes Pakistan's leading wicket-taker in T20IsShaheen Afridi is back in form at a crucial stage of the 2026 T20 World Cup, giving Pakistan a much-needed boost after the disappointment of a rain-abandoned match. His fiery spell against England keeps semi-final hopes alive, reinforcing the team’s confidence in must-win encounters ahead. With four wickets in the match, Afridi overtook Haris Rauf 's 133 wickets tally to become Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker in T20Is, moving 135 T20I wickets for himself. His performance underlines his value in the format and sends a warning to opposition teams in the tournament going forward.Also Read: NZ vs SL Live Streaming: Super 8, T20 World Cup 2026 Live Telecast- When And Where To Watch Live?
