Nahid Rana’s rapid rise has already drawn attention from some of the biggest names in world cricket, including Pakistan pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi, who offered a cheeky but appreciative assessment of the young Bangladesh quick ahead of the Test series opener in Mirpur, on Wednesday.
Rana has been in red-hot form for Bangladesh. Following the conclusion of the ODI series against New Zealand, where he was named Player of the Series, he was quickly drafted back into action by Peshawar Zalmi for the Pakistan Super League final. There, he impressed again with 2 for 22, including a maiden over.
The express pacer’s pace and impact have been hard to ignore. Pakistan have already experienced his threat firsthand during Bangladesh’s previous tour, when he struck four wickets in the second innings in Rawalpindi.
Having also seen him up close in the PSL, Shaheen was asked for his thoughts on the young fast bowler. He responded with praise, while adding a competitive twist.
“I feel he is a very good prospect for Bangladesh cricket. I hope they utilise him well. He has been in very good form recently, which hopefully will not work against us,” Shaheen said.
