Pakistan remain confident that star fast bowler Shaheen Afridi will be fit in time for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is set to begin on February 7. T20I captain Salman Ali Agha said the left-arm pacer is recovering well from a knee injury, raising hopes that Pakistan will have their leading bowler available.
Afridi has returned home after suffering a knee injury while playing for Brisbane Heat in the BBL. The Pakistan Cricket Board recalled him to undergo treatment and rehabilitation at its High Performance Centre in Lahore. Shaheen featured in four matches for Brisbane, taking two wickets at an average of 76.50.
Shaheen Afridi Suffers Knee Injury in Big Bash League
Shaheen Shah Afridi suffered a knee injury while playing in the Big Bash League in Australia. The issue occurred during a match against the Adelaide Strikers, where he appeared uncomfortable while fielding before leaving the ground holding his knee.
Brisbane Heat released Afridi from the tournament, after which the Pakistan Cricket Board called him back home to manage his recovery under its supervision.
Before the injury forced him off the field, Afridi had a mixed outing. He started well but later conceded 19 runs in an over against Italian cricketer Harry Manenti.
It is worth mentioning that this is not the first time Shaheen Afridi has suffered a knee injury. He sustained a similar injury during a Test match in Galle in 2021, which kept him out of action for several months.
We Are Hopeful Shaheen Afridi Will Be Fit for the World Cup – Salman Ali Agha
Shaheen Afridi is a key figure in their white-ball plans, and his fitness is expected to have a major impact on their T20 World Cup campaign, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
Speaking in Dambulla, Salman Ali Agha said that the team is optimistic about Shaheen’s recovery. However, he added that the final call on his availability will be taken by the Pakistan Cricket Board based on advice from the medical team.
“We are hopeful he will be fit for the World Cup but the final decision will come from the (Pakistan Cricket) Board on advice from the medical panel,” Salman told the media in Dambulla, where Pakistan take on Sri Lanka in the first T20I on Wednesday.
This Series Will Help The Players A Lot For the World Cup – Salman Ali Agha
Salman Ali Agha said the team has assembled a well-balanced and competitive squad for the series against Sri Lanka. Salman added that the matches are especially useful for players with limited experience in Sri Lanka, as Pakistan are scheduled to play all of their World Cup games there.
“This series will help the players a lot for the World Cup, especially those who haven’t played that much cricket in Sri Lanka,” Salman said.
Pakistan have named an experienced squad for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka, with only one new face included. Khawaja Nafay is the only uncapped player in the lineup.
Shadab Khan is back in the national team after eight months out following shoulder surgery. Selectors recalled him after his encouraging performances in the Big Bash League, adding experience and balance to Pakistan’s squad.
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