Shaheen Afridi Returns to Pakistan to Resume Rehab For Knee Injury; Set to Miss Remainder of BBL 2025-26 With Brisbane Heat

Pakistan's premier fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has departed the Big Bash League (BBL) early, returning home to address a recurring knee injury. The development raises significant concerns regarding his availability and optimal fitness for the crucial T20 World Cup, which is now just months away. Afridi's early exit from the Melbourne Stars squad underscores a critical challenge for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as they monitor the recovery of one of their key players. David Warner Hits Sensational Six As He Flicks Mahli Beardman Over Square Leg During Sydney Thunder vs Perth Scorchers BBL 2025-26 Match (Watch Video).

Shaheen Shah Afridi's Injury Details and Immediate Action

Reports confirm that Afridi experienced discomfort in his knee during his stint with the Adelaide Striers, prompting medical evaluation and the decision to withdraw from the remainder of the BBL season. While the exact severity of the injury remains under assessment, the proactive measure to send him home indicates a cautious approach from both the player and the PCB, prioritizing his long-term fitness over immediate commitments.

Upon his return to Pakistan, Afridi is expected to undergo comprehensive medical scans and consultations with PCB's medical panel. This assessment will determine the precise nature of the injury and outline a detailed rehabilitation plan. The PCB has yet to issue an official statement detailing the injury's specifics or a potential recovery timeline.

Road to Recovery and World Cup Implications

Shaheen Afridi's fitness is paramount to Pakistan's T20 World Cup aspirations. As a potent left-arm pacer capable of delivering crucial breakthroughs with the new ball and at the death, his absence or a compromised performance would significantly weaken the team's bowling attack. His rehabilitation will be closely managed, with an emphasis on regaining full match fitness without risking further aggravation.

The upcoming weeks will be critical as medical professionals work to ensure Afridi is not only fit to play but also capable of enduring the rigours of an international tournament. The PCB will likely provide regular updates on his progress, balancing transparency with the need to manage expectations surrounding his return.

A History of Knee Concerns

This latest setback is not Afridi's first encounter with knee-related issues. The fast bowler famously sustained a significant knee ligament injury during a Test match in Sri Lanka in July 2022, which subsequently ruled him out of the Asia Cup that year. Although he made a comeback for the T20 World Cup in Australia later in 2022, he re-aggravated the injury during the final against England, forcing him off the field.

These previous incidents highlight the delicate balance required in managing his workload and recovery. The PCB's medical team faces the challenge of ensuring a robust recovery that can withstand the demands of international cricket without leading to future recurrences, especially with a major global tournament on the horizon. Glenn Phillips Switches Stance to Bat Left-Handed, Hits Jayden Lennox For Massive Six Over Covers During Otago vs Central Districts Super Smash 2025-26 Match (Watch Video).

Team Management's Stance

While official comments from Pakistan's team management and selectors are awaited, the concern over Afridi's fitness will undoubtedly be a key topic in upcoming selection meetings. His leadership qualities, particularly as a former T20 captain, and his ability to inspire the bowling unit make him an indispensable asset. The focus will be on providing him with the best possible medical care to ensure his swift and complete return to competitive cricket ahead of the T20 World Cup.

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(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Dec 30, 2025 05:04 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).