Pakistan’s lethal left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi is on the mend from a knee niggle, boosting hopes for his participation in the T20 World Cup 2026. The injury scare during his Big Bash League stint raised concerns, but recent updates confirm a swift recovery timeline under PCB supervision.
Shaheen Afridi has battled recurring knee issues, starting with a serious 2021 injury while fielding in Galle that sidelined him for months. In 2022, a posterior cruciate ligament tear in Sri Lanka kept him out for nearly half the year, forcing him to miss early 2022 T20 World Cup games and limiting his role in the final.
Afridi’s BBL campaign with Brisbane Heat ended abruptly after four matches, where he claimed just two wickets at over 11 runs per over, including a debut marred by two waist-high full tosses. The December 27 knee injury against Adelaide Strikers sparked doubts over his T20 World Cup 2026 availability, given his history.
Shaheen Afridi Latest Injury Update
Speaking at a Lahore Qalandars event, Afridi downplayed the issue: “My rehabilitation is ongoing and the PCB team is monitoring everything. Right now, I’m focusing on gym sessions and batting. I’ll begin bowling next week. This injury is not as serious as the previous ones. There is only slight swelling on the bone and the MRI results were reassuring. I don’t think it will take a month, it should be closer to a week.”
Will Shaheen Afridi Play T20 World Cup?
Yes, Afridi remains on track for the T20 World Cup 2026 in India and Sri Lanka, with PCB medical staff optimistic after reassuring scans. Despite past setbacks, his strong 2025 T20I form as Pakistan’s third-highest wicket-taker signals a key role ahead. As the player has himself claimed that the injury may take a maximum of one week to resolve, the Pakistan fans can breathe easy on Afridi’s availability for the prized event.