A big, bustling fast-medium bowler from the NWFP, Riaz Afridi first shot to fame during Pakistan U-19s successful 2004 World Cup campaign. He was Pakistan's leading wicket-taker, with 19 wickets at under 13, instrumental in their ultimate triumph. The stage was set for a quick induction into the senior squad, particularly after he took 80 first-class wickets in that season, and towards the end of that year, he made his Test debut alongside Rana Naved-ul-Hasan, against Sri Lanka. Sadly, that was to be his solitary international appearance; he took two wickets, but eyebrows were raised about his action. Since then, he has been a solid domestic performer, though has not played as many domestic games as he would've like, due to injuries. But that Test appearance is now likely to be his last, as he was one of eight Pakistan players to sign up for the Indian Cricket League (ICL) in February 2007. The Pakistan board has barred ICL players from appearing for Pakistan or even playing domestic cricket, and Afridi is thus unlikely to be seen again in Pakistan colours.
Cricinfo Staff