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In a huge blow to Pakistan, their premier fast bowler Shaheen Afridi has sustained a knee injury resulting in him getting ruled out of remainder of Big Bash League (BBL) 2025-26. The Brisbane Heat’s Pakistan recruit will fly back home for further treatment.
"After consulting with the Pakistan Cricket Board's medical staff during the past 24 hours, it was agreed that Shaheen would cut short his Big Bash League stint to return home for further treatment ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup," the Brisbane Heat said in a statement on December 30.
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Afridi was the number one pick in the BBL draft. The 25-year-old did not have much success in his debut BBL sting, taking just two wickets from four games and bowling expensive spells.
“I have enjoyed myself a lot playing for Brisbane and I am sad that I will not be able to finish the season with the team,” the pacer said.
“I am massively thankful to the Heat fans for showering me with immense love and support. I am also grateful for the support of the team and their amazing hospitality.
“The BBL was everything I had heard it would be – lots of good, skilful cricket. I have enjoyed the challenge.”
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Captain’s message for injured Afridi
Brisbane Heat captain Xavier Bartlett had a message for Afridi as well.
“The conversations that I and the other bowlers have had with Shaheen about bowling and match situations have been great value. He fitted in very easily into the squad and it was a pleasure to have played alongside him.”
Brisbane Heat have signed Jack Wood as his replacement player. Wood has played six BBL games for the franchise.
Will Afridi miss T20 World Cup 2026?
Afridi has had his bout with knee injury. He got injured in the T20 World Cup 2022 final against England as well. He has not been named in Pakistan’s squad for the Sri Lanka tour. The preparatory T20I series kicks off on January 7. Pakistan are set to play all their T20 World Cup 2026 games in Sri Lanka. While Pakistan can name Afridi in the provisional squad, there is no official word around whether he will be available to play in the mega event.
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