Watch: Shaheen Afridi struck in the first over of a game yet again, taking two consecutive wickets against Nepal in the 2023 Asia Cup opener.

Shaheen, who has made it a habit of giving Pakistan an early breakthrough game after game, was back doing what he does best on August 30 (Wednesday), scalping two wickets in two balls in the first over of Nepal’s innings. The left-armer did not have the greatest start, as he conceded two fours in two balls to Kushal Bhurtel, but he bounced back in style, as he dismissed the batter three balls later.

On the fifth ball, Bhurtel poked the delivery that was going down the leg side, and only managed an inside edge to the wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan, giving Pakistan an ideal start.

The next ball was vintage Shaheen: Rohit Paudel attempted to play the inswinger softly, but he was beaten for pace as the ball crashed onto his pads before he could get his bat down in time. Three reds on the ball tracker confirmed his dismissal, as Nepal were reduced to 10-2, chasing a massive 343.

They were ultimately shot out for 104, as Pakistan won by 238 runs, making it the biggest win in the history of the Asia Cup. Shaheen did not pick up any other wickets in the remainder of the game, finishing with 2-27 in five overs.

Watch Shaheen’s wickets here:

Pace & swing 💥
Pakistan's premier pacers have been on the money from the get go, restricting Nepal with quick and lethal strikes!

Will Nepal put up a spirited fight?

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— Star Sports (@StarSportsIndia) August 30, 2023