Lahore: Pakistan’s fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has started the rehabilitation process at the National Cricket Academy after suffering a knee injury that he sustained during the BBL-15. His future in the World Cup in 2026 is in doubt.
Shaheen Afridi sustained the injury on December 27 during a match for Brisbane Heat while playing against Adelaide Strikers. He hobbled off during the 14th over with his left leg pointing to his knee, which saw him miss the remainder of the tournament.
“I am massively thankful to the Brisbane Heat family for showering me with immense love and support,” Afridi said on X. “Due to an unexpected injury, I’m being called back by the PCB, and I’ll be doing some rehab. Hope to be back on the field soon. In the meantime, I’ll be cheering on the unbelievable team.”
According to reports, his recovery process will also include checks on how he is progressing, in order to ensure that he has regained full health in time for the T20 World Cup, which begins on the 7th of February. The extent of the knee injury has left his involvement at the World Cup uncertain.
Later, Brisbane Heat filled the spot with Zaman Khan as Afridi was ruled out. Zaman Khan, aged 24, and participating because his name has been cleared by the BBL Technical Committee, will play in the next match for the Brisbane Heat against Sydney Thunder. Prior to this, Zaman had played for Sydney Thunder in the 13th version of the BBL, where he picked eight wickets in four matches with an average of 16.38.
Heat coach Johan Botha is also a big fan of Zaman. “He is a genuine wicket-taker in the opening, but he can also complete an over with his change of pace,” Botha said. “He is a welcome addition to our bowling lineup, as he will also add options for us in the most critical stages of bowling.” Zaman had impressed from day one, and he has only progressed further.
