With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, cricket fever is sweeping across Pakistan—and so is the discovery of Mitchell Starc and his uncanny (well, almost) Pakistani doppelgänger.
Enter Shani Bhai, who has become an overnight internet sensation for his striking resemblance to the Australian pace bowler. And by “striking,” we mean you might need to squint a little, but hey, the resemblance is there if you believe hard enough.
Dubbed “Desi Starc” or “Malik Starc” by fans, Shani has taken the internet by storm with his earnest attempts to channel his inner Mitchell Starc.
From mimicking the Aussie’s bowling action to nailing his intense on-field expressions, Shani is living his best Starc-inspired life. And now, he has one heartfelt wish: to meet his idol when Starc arrives in Pakistan for the Champions Trophy.
Shani Bhai’s rise to fame began when a video of him bowling in his village surfaced online. Cricket fans were quick to point out his resemblance to the Australian left-arm pacer, and the comparisons snowballed from there.
Soon, Shani was embracing his newfound fame, posting videos of himself imitating Starc’s bowling style, complete with the signature run-up and follow-through. Sure, the technique might not be as polished, but the passion? Unmatched.
In his latest viral clip, Shani made a direct appeal to the internet, asking for help in making his dream come true.
Fans have rallied behind Shani’s dream. “This is the kind of cricket story we love,” one fan tweeted. “Let’s make this happen!”
