Advertisement
Advertisement
LAHORE: Ace pacer Shaheen Afridi has started his rehabilitation programme here at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) after suffering a knee injury during the Big Bash League (BBL) 15.
Shaheen was ruled out of BBL 15 after a knee injury sustained on Saturday, 27 December, during Brisbane Heat’s clash against Adelaide Strikers.
The left-arm pacer limped off while pointing to his right knee during the 14th over.
Eventually, he was ruled out and thanked fans for supporting him through his short stint.
“I’m massively thankful to the Brisbane Heat team and fans for showering me with immense love and support,” he wrote on his X post.
“Due to an unexpected injury, I have been called back by the PCB and will have to take a rehab. Hopefully, I will be back in the fields soon. Meanwhile, I will be cheering for the amazing team.”
According to reports, Afridi’s rehabilitation programme will also include regular assessments to monitor his recovery and ensure he regains full fitness ahead of the mega event.
For those unaware, Shaheen, along with Babar Azam, was not included in the squad for the three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka due to their commitment to the BBL 15.
It is pertinent to mention that the severity of Shaheen’s injury could potentially hinder his participation in the T20 World Cup 2026, which will commence on 7 February.
Earlier today, Brisbane Heat announced pacer Zaman Khan as Shaheen’s replacement.
The 24-year-old right-arm pacer has received clearance from the BBL Technical Committee and is set to be available for the Heat’s fixture against Sydney Thunder at the Gabba on Saturday.
The match will see Zaman come up against his former franchise, having previously represented the Thunder during BBL 13.
Known for his distinctive slingy action and effectiveness at the death, Zaman featured in four matches for Sydney Thunder, claiming eight wickets at an impressive average of 16.38.
Brisbane Heat head coach Johan Botha expressed confidence that Zaman’s inclusion would add a cutting edge to the bowling unit as the tournament reaches a crucial phase.
“He’s a genuine wicket-taker up front, but he can also control an over with his variations and pace,” Botha said.
“He complements our attack nicely and gives us additional options in the key bowling periods. Zaman was a handful when he first came on the scene and has continued to evolve his game,” he concluded.
READ: Wasim Akram names Pakistan’s surprise package for T20 World Cup
