Brisbane Heat have confirmed that Pakistan fast bowler Zaman Khan will replace injured compatriot Shaheen Shah Afridi for the remainder of the 2025/26 Big Bash League (BBL 15) season. The 24-year-old pacer has been officially cleared by the BBL Technical Committee as an International Replacement Player and will be available for selection immediately.
Zaman is set to make his Heat debut against his former team, Sydney Thunder, at the Gabba on Saturday. His inclusion comes at a crucial stage of the tournament, with the Heat aiming to secure a top-four finish as the playoffs approach.
Zaman Khan’s Previous BBL and T20 Experience
Zaman Khan previously played for Sydney Thunder during BBL|13. In that season, he appeared in four matches and took eight wickets at an impressive average of 16.38. His ability to strike early in the innings and maintain control with variations has already been showcased in Australia’s premier T20 competition.
Since his earlier BBL stint, Zaman has gained valuable international experience. He has represented Pakistan in 10 T20 Internationals and one One-Day International. He is currently captained by Shaheen Afridi at Lahore Qalandars in the Pakistan Super League, where he has been in strong form and a consistent wicket-taking threat.
Zaman has also expanded his experience in global T20 leagues. Recently, he played in the Abu Dhabi T10 League, where he made an immediate impact by taking a hat-trick in his opening match. Additionally, he has played in England’s The Hundred, representing Manchester Originals, further highlighting his credentials as a seasoned short-format bowler.
Brisbane Heat’s Plans Ahead of Key Fixtures
Brisbane Heat head coach Johan Botha welcomed Zaman’s signing. He highlighted the pacer’s ability to deliver wickets and manage overs efficiently. “He’s a genuine wicket-taker early on and also has the ability to manage an over with his variations and pace,” Botha said. “We feel he can slot into our attack well and give us more flexibility during key phases of the game.”
The Heat will first test Zaman against Sydney Thunder in Brisbane after their earlier defeat to the side in Canberra. They are also preparing for a crucial clash against Sydney Sixers at Coffs Harbour. With the top-four finish still up for grabs, Botha expects Zaman’s inclusion to add depth and dynamism to the bowling attack as the tournament enters its final stages.
With Shaheen Afridi sidelined due to injury, Zaman’s arrival provides a timely boost to Brisbane Heat’s bowling arsenal. His proven ability in domestic and international T20 competitions makes him a key addition for the remainder of BBL 15.
