Injury setback during BBL
Shaheen sustained the injury in the 12th over of the Brisbane Heat vs Adelaide Strikers match, where he had bowled 3 overs for 26 runs before hobbling off the field. The left-arm pacer was ruled out for the remainder of the Big Bash League (BBL) season. Despite concerns, Afridi revealed that the injury was not as serious as it appeared and he has been on a steady recovery path.
T20 World Cup return on track
With rehabilitation progressing smoothly, Afridi is now able to put full load on his knee while bowling in nets. While Pakistan’s official T20 World Cup squad is yet to be announced, Afridi is expected to return as the spearhead of the pace attack, alongside most players from the recent Sri Lanka series.
Form and experience vital for Pakistan
At 25, Afridi remains a key figure for Pakistan’s T20 World Cup ambitions. Known for setting the tone early in the powerplay and delivering crucial overs at the death, his performance could define Pakistan’s chances in the tournament. Before the BBL, Afridi impressed in a home tri-series against Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe and was the second-highest wicket-taker in the Asia Cup with 10 wickets in 7 matches at an economy rate of 6.60.
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Group A schedule
- Feb 7: vs Netherlands, Colombo (SSC)
- Feb 10: vs USA, Colombo (SSC)
- Feb 15: vs India, Colombo (RPS)
- Feb 18: vs Namibia, Colombo (SSC)
Afridi’s return to fitness is a major boost for Pakistan as they aim to make a strong run in the T20 World Cup 2026.
