Pakistan and Montreal Tigers pacer, Abbas Afridi, produced a stunning display of bowling in the GT20 Canada match held in Brampton. During the intense encounter between Vancouver Knights and Tigers, Afridi wreaked havoc with his fiery pace and impeccable skills.
His exceptional performance resulted in a remarkable five-wicket haul, conceding just 29 runs in his spell of four overs. The highlight of his mesmerizing display was an extraordinary hat-trick that left the Knights stunned and struggling to post a competitive total.
Afridi's magical spell began by dismissing Vritiya Aravind early in the innings, setting the tone for a dominant performance. However, Knights' Mohammad Rizwan and Corsbin Bosch formed a promising partnership, putting their team in a favorable position.
Determined to turn the tide in his team's favor, Afridi struck again, removing Bosch at a crucial juncture. This breakthrough triggered a dramatic collapse as the Knights lost three wickets in three balls, leaving them in disarray.
Even the experienced and hard-hitting Knights' skipper, Rassie van der Dussen, couldn't escape Afridi's wrath, departing for a golden duck. Afridi's precise delivery trapped him leg before wicket, sending him back to the pavilion.
With the opportunity for a hat-trick, Afridi faced Afghanistan's Najibullah Zadran, a dangerous left-handed batsman. The young pacer rose to the occasion, delivering a perfect ball to dismiss Zadran to complete a sensational hat-trick.
But Afridi wasn't done yet. He continued to torment the Knights' batting lineup, claiming one more wicket, that of Fabian Allen. Finishing with five out of six wickets taken by the Tigers, Afridi's outstanding performance earned him the well-deserved title of player of the match.
His impressive efforts paved the way for Montreal Tigers to successfully chase down the target in the last over, securing a thrilling victory with just one wicket remaining.