Oman Bowler Stuns Shubman Gill, Akram Advises Shaheen to Rethink His Bowling Strategy Ahead of Super Four Clash
The final group stage match of the Asia Cup 2025 saw an unexpectedly fierce challenge from Oman, as they pushed Team India to the edge before losing by 21 runs. But the moment that caught everyone’s attention came in just the second over of India’s innings — when Oman’s Shah Faisal bowled out Shubman Gill with a stunning delivery.
That moment led to strong reactions from cricket legends, including Wasim Akram, who has now advised Shaheen Afridi to take a cue from Shah Faisal’s bowling approach ahead of Pakistan’s Super Four match against India.
Shah Faisal’s Breakthrough: Gill Bowled for 5
In the second over, Shah Faisal delivered a full-length ball that rattled Shubman Gill’s off stump, giving Oman their first breakthrough in just nine balls. The delivery surprised many — especially given Gill’s consistent form — and became one of the highlights of the match, despite Oman’s eventual loss.
Wasim Akram’s Advice for Shaheen Afridi
Reacting to the dismissal, former Pakistan captain and legendary pacer Wasim Akram said that Shaheen Afridi should take notes from Shah Faisal.
“That’s what I want Shaheen to do early on. The whole world now knows he’s going to bowl yorkers first up,” Akram said on Sony Sports Network.
He stressed the need for variation, suggesting that Shaheen should avoid overusing yorkers.
“I’m fine with one-off yorkers, but not two or three in a row. If he misses one, it goes for a boundary with only two fielders outside the circle. It puts pressure on him. He needs to mix it up with length balls,” Akram added.
Shaheen’s Recent Struggles
In Pakistan’s group match against India, Shaheen Afridi was expensive, giving away 23 runs in just 2 overs and going wicketless. With the Super Four clash looming, pressure is on him to adjust his strategy and deliver.
Match Recap: India vs Oman
- India: 188/8 (20 overs)
- Sanju Samson: 56 runs
- Oman: 167/4 (20 overs)
- Aamir Kaleem: 64
- Hammad Mirza: 51
Top wicket-takers for Oman:
- Shah Faisal – 2 wickets
- Jiten Ramanandi – 2 wickets
- Aamir Kaleem – 2 wickets
Next Clash: India vs Pakistan – Super Four
India and Pakistan are scheduled to meet again in the Asia Cup 2025 Super Four stage this Sunday in Dubai. With both teams eyeing a spot in the final, the battle is expected to be fierce — and Shaheen Afridi’s bowling strategy will be under the spotlight.
