Pakistan’s left-arm spinner Asif Afridi made a remarkable start to his Test career, setting a unique record in his debut match against South Africa at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Afridi, who debuted at the age of 38 years and 299 days, became the oldest cricketer to take five wickets in an innings on Test debut, breaking a 92-year-old record held by England’s Charles Marriott.
Marriott had taken five wickets on his debut in 1933 at the age of 37 years and 332 days, a record that stood unchallenged for nearly a century.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) lauded Afridi’s performance, describing it as an inspiring achievement for domestic players who continue to pursue international recognition later in their careers.
Cricket analysts hailed Afridi’s feat as a “testament to perseverance and skill,” noting that his late debut and immediate impact highlight Pakistan’s depth in spin bowling talent.
