Is Shaheen Afridi Out of BBL 15 Due to Knee Injury?
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Synopsis
Shaheen Afridi's knee injury has sidelined him from the BBL 2025-26, raising concerns about his recovery ahead of the T20 World Cup. The young pacer expresses gratitude to fans and reflects on his experience in the league as he prepares for rehab in Lahore.
Key Takeaways
- Shaheen Afridi is out for the season due to a knee injury.
- He will undergo rehabilitation in Lahore.
- The injury raises concerns for Pakistan ahead of the T20 World Cup.
- Afridi has expressed his gratitude to fans and teammates.
- PCB is prioritizing player health and recovery.
New Delhi, Dec 30 (NationPress) Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, who has been playing for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26, has been ruled out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury sustained during a previous match in Australia's T20 league.
The Brisbane Heat confirmed Afridi's absence for the remaining BBL season through an official statement on Tuesday.
The Pakistan ODI captain incurred a knee cartilage injury while fielding in the last over of the match against the Adelaide Strikers at Gabba in Brisbane on Saturday (December 27). The Brisbane Heat reached out to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) medical team, and it was mutually agreed that it would be best for the pacer to return home for further treatment ahead of the upcoming T20 World Cup.
In an interview with Telecom Asia Sport (www.telecomasia.net), Shaheen mentioned that he plans to fly back home early on Wednesday (Australia time) to start his rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore later this week.
“My injury isn't severe, but I've been advised to go back to Lahore, where my rehabilitation will commence. I am optimistic that after a week of rehab, I will be able to resume bowling within ten days,” the pacer stated, as reported by www.telecomasia.net.
Sources familiar with the situation revealed that the PCB considers Shaheen a vital asset to the national team's bowling lineup and believes he needs proper rehabilitation, which can be effectively conducted in Lahore. The PCB has also enlisted Dr. Javed Mughal, a well-known sports medicine specialist, to address injury concerns within the Pakistan camp.
The T20 World Cup is scheduled to take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8, although the PCB has yet to announce its 15-player squad. Recently, the selectors revealed the team for the three-match series against Sri Lanka, in which Shaheen, Babar Azam, and Haris Rauf were excluded due to their commitments in the BBL.
However, this injury has changed the landscape for Shaheen, who now faces a race against time to recuperate before the World Cup. Pakistan is set to compete in Group A alongside India, the USA, Namibia, and the Netherlands.
“I have truly enjoyed my time with Brisbane and am disappointed that I can't finish the season with the team. I am extremely grateful to the Heat fans for their incredible support and to the team for their wonderful hospitality,” Shaheen expressed in an official statement shared by Brisbane Heat.
“The BBL was everything I anticipated - filled with excellent, skillful cricket. I have relished the challenge. I will be rooting for the team while I recover from this unexpected injury and hope to cross paths again in the future,” he added.
Point of View
It is crucial to emphasize the importance of player health and rehabilitation. Shaheen Afridi's injury is a significant setback for the Pakistan cricket team, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching. The PCB's decision to prioritize his recovery in Lahore reflects their commitment to ensuring that our players are in peak condition for international competition.
NationPress
07/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What injury did Shaheen Afridi sustain?
Shaheen Afridi suffered a knee cartilage injury while fielding during a match.
How long will Afridi be out of action?
He is sidelined for the rest of the BBL season and is expected to start bowling after a week of rehabilitation.
Where will Afridi undergo rehabilitation?
He will undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.
What is the significance of Afridi's injury for the Pakistani team?
Afridi's injury is crucial as he is a key player for Pakistan, especially with the T20 World Cup approaching.
What is the schedule for the T20 World Cup?
The T20 World Cup will take place in India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
