DUBAI: Pakistan team’s main strike bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has departed for London where he will complete his rehabilitation, announced Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday. 

Shaheen, who was earlier ruled out of the ongoing Asia Cup 2022 and the seven-match T20I home series against England due to a knee ligament injury, will remain under the supervision of the PCB Medical Advisory Panel, which also includes London-based Dr Imtiaz Ahmed and Dr Zafar Iqbal during his stay in London.

Dr Imtiaz has been the Head of Medical Services at the Queens Park Rangers Football Club since 2016, while Dr Zafar is Head of Sports Medicine at the Crystal Palace Football Club since 2015 (having worked previously with Tottenham Hotspur FC, Liverpool FC and Kent County Cricket Club).

“Shaheen Shah Afridi requires uninterrupted, dedicated knee specialist care and London offers some of the best sports medical and rehabilitation facilities in the world. In the best interest of the player, we have decided to send him there,” said PCB Chief Medical Officer, Dr Najeebullah Soomro.

“The medical department will receive daily feedback on his progress whilst in London and we are confident Shaheen will return to full fitness before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.” he added.

It is worth mentioning here that Shaheen suffered a PCL injury in July whilst fielding during the first Test against Sri Lanka. He is expected to be completely fit before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, although his return to competitive cricket will be determined by the PCB Medical Advisory Panel.

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