When it comes to discovering fresh talent in cricket, sometimes the brightest stars emerge when you least expect them.
That’s exactly what happened with Shoaib Bashir, the 21-year-old spinner who’s been turning heads with an incredible performance against Zimbabwe at Trent Bridge.
Ben Stokes, England’s captain, couldn’t hide his admiration after Bashir took a career-best six wickets for 81 runs, helping bowl out Zimbabwe for 255 in their second innings.
This brilliant bowling effort was key to England wrapping up the match by an innings and 45 runs in just three days.
Shoaib Bashir’s Record-Breaking Feat
What makes Bashir’s performance even more remarkable is that he’s the youngest England bowler to claim a six-for in a Test since the legendary Fred Trueman did it back in 1952.
On top of that, he’s now the youngest Englishman to reach 50 Test wickets.
Despite struggling for game time earlier this season—he only took two wickets across three county matches and had to go on loan to Glamorgan from Somerset—Bashir showed resilience and determination on the big stage.
“Getting nine wickets in a Test match after not having many opportunities to play this year is exceptional,” Stokes said.
“It shows how comfortable he is with this group.
He’s only getting stronger. His natural ability is unbelievable, but what’s even better is his hunger to keep improving.
He’s a very special talent.”
From Somerset to the International Stage
Bashir’s rise has been swift and somewhat unexpected.
He made his Test debut in India back in February 2024 after playing just six first-class matches—a huge leap.
Stokes first spotted him bowling for Somerset on social media, and the England captain was immediately impressed.
“It’s almost scary to think about how little experience he had before his Test debut,” Stokes admitted.
“But if he keeps performing like this, it’ll become clear why we picked him.”
Ollie Pope’s Resilience at No3
While Bashir grabbed the headlines, Stokes also gave a shout-out to Ollie Pope.
The batsman scored an impressive 171 runs, fighting hard to keep his No3 spot ahead of the upcoming India series where Jacob Bethell is expected back.
“He’s not just scoring runs, he’s also my vice-captain and a key part of the team,” Stokes said.
“He’s been outstanding at No3 and I really value him.”
A Catch to Remember at Trent Bridge
The match also featured a jaw-dropping moment from Harry Brook that even left Stokes speechless.
Ten years ago, Stokes himself made a stunning one-handed catch at Trent Bridge during the Ashes.
But this time, it was Brook who stole the show with a spectacular flying catch at second slip to dismiss Zimbabwe’s Wesley Madhevere.
Asked which catch was better, Stokes didn’t hesitate. “Wow, that was exceptional.
I had the best seat in the house for it,” he said.
“I even chatted with Broad after the game and he said it gave him exactly the same feeling as when I made mine.”
Stokes explained how he and Broad both thought the ball was going for four, only for Brook’s hand to appear out of nowhere to snatch the catch. “It was seriously impressive.”
What’s Next for Shoaib Bashir?
With performances like this, Shoaib Bashir is clearly on the path to becoming one of England’s standout players.
His journey from limited county game time to match-winning heroics at Trent Bridge is inspiring, and if Stokes’ words are anything to go by, the sky is the limit for this young spinner.
England fans will be eagerly watching to see how Bashir builds on this breakthrough and whether he can maintain this momentum through the rest of the season and beyond.