Pakistan’s leading fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has sustained a knee injury while playing in Australia’s Big Bash League (BBL), prompting concerns about his short-term availability ahead of the T20 World Cup.
The injury occurred during Brisbane Heat’s match against the Adelaide Strikers on Saturday, when Afridi reportedly experienced knee discomfort lasting nearly an hour during play.
The Brisbane Heat franchise confirmed the injury and stated that Shaheen’s rehabilitation process has already begun. Team officials clarified that his knee will undergo further examination once the squad returns from Adelaide, ensuring proper assessment before any resumption of activity.
Due to the injury, Shaheen Afridi will not participate in Brisbane Heat’s upcoming match against the Adelaide Strikers. Officials emphasized that this precautionary decision was taken to prevent worsening the condition and to prioritize the player’s long-term fitness.
Sources revealed that Afridi will depart from Australia and return to Pakistan tonight to continue his recovery under controlled supervision. Upon arrival, he is expected to begin rehabilitation at Pakistan’s High Performance Center, with a focus on regaining full fitness before the T20 World Cup.
The decision to withdraw him from the BBL was described by team management as purely precautionary, underscoring the priority of his health in preparation for the upcoming international tournament. Officials highlighted that Afridi’s presence and performance in the T20 World Cup are considered critical for Pakistan’s campaign, making his rehabilitation and management a top priority.
Shaheen Afridi’s exit from the BBL is a significant development for both the league and Pakistan cricket fans, as it emphasizes the careful approach taken by management to safeguard players’ fitness ahead of major tournaments.
