When Asif Afridi, a 38‑year‑old left‑arm orthodox spinner, ripped through South Africa’s first innings for Pakistan at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium on October 22, 2025, he didn’t just claim his first Test wickets – he rewrote the record books. The 5‑61 figures he posted made him the oldest cricketer ever to take a five‑wicket haul on Test debut, shattering a 92‑year‑old benchmark set by England’s Charles Marriott in 1933.
Record‑breaking debut in context
The match was the third day of the second Test in the Pakistan vs South Africa Test Series 2025, a bilateral contest organized by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi was on hand in Lahore when the video clip was uploaded to the board’s official YouTube channel, albeit with a mis‑labelled ‘six‑fer’ claim.
What makes Afridi’s feat truly astonishing is the age factor. The previous record holder, Charles Marriott, was 37 years and 22 days old when he bowled 5‑50 against New Zealand in Christchurch on February 10, 1933. Afridi, at almost 38 years and nine months, pushed the age envelope far beyond what most selectors thought possible for a debutant.
How Afridi reached the international stage
Until his call‑up, Afridi had been a stalwart of domestic cricket, turning out for Faisalabad’s regional side and the Central Punjab squad in the Quaid‑e‑Azam Trophy. His perseverance earned him praise from former Pakistan captain Younis Khan, who noted, “He’s been knocking on the door for years. When the opportunity finally came, he made every ball count.”
Analysts point to a spate of injuries among Pakistan’s spin department earlier in the series, which opened a slot for a left‑arm option. PCB’s head selector, Zafar Jamal, confirmed the decision was merit‑based: “Asif’s domestic figures were undeniable. Age is just a number; his control and drift are world‑class.”
Match details and statistics
- South Africa were 285‑8 at lunch on Day 3.
- Afridi’s spell: 18 overs, 4 maidens, 61 runs, 5 wickets.
- Key dismissals: Andile Phehlukwayo (c), Lungi Ngidi (b), Keshav Maharaj (c & b).
- Pakistan’s bowling attack finished the innings at 295‑9, giving South Africa a modest lead of 10 runs.
- Overall series score after the match: Pakistan 1‑0 lead.
According to Dawn News, the South African lower order “frustrated Pakistan” with a flurry of boundaries that prevented a larger collapse. Yet Afridi’s spin proved too cunning for the tail, especially the way he drifted the ball into the rough on the right‑hand side.
Reactions from officials and fans
Social media lit up instantly. The hashtag #PAKvSA trended across Twitter, with fans dubbing Afridi “the late‑bloomer legend.” PCB’s official account posted the YouTube clip, captioned “Asif Afridi Takes 6‑fer in His First Test!” – a slip later corrected by journalists who pointed out the 5‑61 stats.
In an interview with India TV News, Afridi stayed modest: “I’m just happy to contribute. The team needed wickets, and I’m glad I could deliver.” Meanwhile, South Africa’s captain Aiden Markram praised the effort, saying, “You never see a bowler of his age take us apart like that. It’s a reminder of cricket’s timeless nature.”
What this means for Pakistan cricket
The record throws a fresh spotlight on Pakistan’s talent‑identification mechanisms. Historically, the board has been criticized for overlooking seasoned domestic performers. Afridi’s breakthrough may inspire a more inclusive selection policy, especially as the team looks to balance youth with experience.
Cricket historian Mohammad Ilyas noted, “Pakistan has produced late‑bloomers before—Abid Ali in 2019, Mohammad Irfan in 2010—but none have hit the headlines this big. It could shift the narrative around age and debut opportunities.”
Looking ahead
The series continues with the third Test scheduled for November 2 at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium. Pakistan will aim to capitalise on the momentum, while South Africa will be keen to respond before the series wraps up.
Beyond the immediate series, Afridi’s record may prompt discussions at the International Cricket Council (ICC) about age thresholds for debutants, particularly in nations where domestic depth is still growing.
- Key Fact 1: Afridi’s 5‑61 is the oldest five‑wicket haul on Test debut.
- Key Fact 2: The previous record stood for 92 years, set by Charles Marriott (England, 1933).
- Key Fact 3: Afridi is Pakistan’s third‑oldest Test debutant after Abid Ali and Mohammad Irfan.
- Key Fact 4: The performance came at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, a venue known for spin‑friendly conditions.
Frequently Asked Questions
How does Afridi’s record affect future selections for Pakistan?
Selectors may give more weight to seasoned domestic performers, recognising that experience can translate into immediate impact at the international level. Afridi’s success could open doors for other late bloomers who have been on the fringes for years.
What was the exact age of Charles Marriott when he set the previous record?
Marriott was 37 years and 22 days old when he claimed 5‑50 against New Zealand in Christchurch on 10 February 1933. His record stood unchallenged for nearly a century.
Did any other bowler take a five‑wicket haul in the same match?
No. Afridi was the lone five‑wicket taker on Day 3. Pakistan’s seamers combined for just two wickets, while South Africa’s bowlers managed three, keeping the contest evenly balanced.
What were the immediate reactions from South African players?
Captain Aiden Markram praised Afridi’s skill, calling it a “stunning display of spin.” Several South African bowlers admitted they were “caught off‑guard” by the turn and drift, noting the need to adjust their tactics for the remainder of the innings.
When and where is the next Test in the series scheduled?
The third Test will commence on 2 November 2025 at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan. Both sides will be eager to either consolidate or overturn the advantage forged in Rawalpindi.
