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Shaheen Afridi's T20 World Cup Return in Doubt?
7 Jan
Summary
- Captain Salman Ali Agha hopeful of Shaheen Afridi's recovery.
- Afridi's knee injury sustained during a BBL match in Australia.
- Pakistan squad includes uncapped Khawaja Nafay and Shadab Khan.
Pakistan's T20 captain Salman Ali Agha is hopeful that star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi will recover from his knee injury in time for the T20 World Cup 2026. Afridi's rehabilitation is currently being overseen by the Pakistan Cricket Board's medical panel in Lahore. The injury recurred after he sustained it while fielding during a recent Big Bash League match in Australia.
The national selectors have announced a balanced squad for the upcoming series in Sri Lanka, which will serve as crucial preparation for the World Cup. This series aims to help players acclimatize to the conditions, especially those unfamiliar with Sri Lankan grounds. The squad notably includes the uncapped Khawaja Nafay and the experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan, who returns after an eight-month absence due to shoulder surgery.
Shaheen Afridi's previous knee issue in 2021 resulted in a lengthy absence from the game. His potential availability for the T20 World Cup, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is considered vital for Pakistan's aspirations. The PCB released a video of his rehabilitation, though details on his recovery timeline remain undisclosed.
