KEY POINTS
- Afridi left the field with a knee injury during a BBL match, casting doubt on his availability for upcoming international duties.
- The Brisbane Heat secured victory despite his absence, while the fast bowler awaits critical medical assessment results.
BRISBANE: Pakistan pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi was forced off the field with an apparent knee injury during the Brisbane Heat’s Big Bash League (BBL) clash against the Adelaide, sparking immediate concern ahead of a packed international calendar including ICC T20 World Cup in February 2026.
The left-arm fast bowler, midway through his spell, was seen clutching his left knee in visible discomfort. After a brief on-field conversation with team medical staff, he walked off and did not return to bowl his remaining overs. He finished with figures of 3-0-26-0. Brisbane Heat officials later confirmed he would take no further part in the match.
Heat Regroup to Secure Tense Victory
Despite the blow of losing their ace bowler, the Brisbane Heat displayed resilience. The bowling unit tightened up to restrict the Adelaide Strikers to 172. In a nail-biting chase, the Heat held their nerve to clinch a seven-wicket victory, ensuring Shaheen’s absence did not cost them the match on the night.
Anxious Wait for Medical Assessment
The Heat management stated that Shaheen will undergo detailed medical assessments over the next 24-48 hours to determine the severity of the injury. While the exact nature of the issue is not yet known, the timing is particularly worrying with the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup scheduled for February 2026.
Cloud Over Pakistan’s Campaigns
The incident has sent a wave of anxiety through the Pakistani cricket community. Shaheen is a pivotal figure across all formats, and his fitness is paramount to Pakistan’s plans. Having only recently returned to full fitness after previous injury layoffs, his workload management is a constant focus. This scare raises fresh questions just as Pakistan gears up for crucial assignments.
All eyes will now be on the results of Shaheen Afridi’s scans, with Brisbane Heat and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) hoping fervently that the setback is minor and his recovery swift.
