Pakistan’s pace spearhead Shaheen Shah Afridi has started a rehabilitation programme after sustaining a knee injury during a Big Bash League match between Brisbane Heat and Adelaide Strikers in Brisbane, triggering concern just weeks before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Afridi experienced discomfort while bowling and left the field midway through the contest. He completed only three overs, conceding 26 runs, before medical staff ruled him out of the remainder of the match. Observers later saw him walking cautiously, prompting immediate precautionary steps.
Brisbane Heat officials confirmed that Afridi has entered the initial phase of rehabilitation. Medical teams will carry out further assessments over the next 24 to 48 hours to determine the extent of the injury and finalise his recovery plan.
BREAKING: Shaheen Afridi will miss the remainder of #BBL15 due to a knee injury. pic.twitter.com/dY5Btfn396
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 30, 2025Both the franchise and the Pakistan Cricket Board plan to adopt a cautious approach. Team management intends to prioritise the fast bowler’s long-term fitness rather than rushing him back into action.
Despite losing their strike bowler early, Brisbane Heat defended a modest total and bowled Adelaide Strikers out for 172 to secure a seven-run win. However, Afridi’s injury overshadowed the result, given his importance to the Heat’s BBL campaign and Pakistan’s international ambitions.
The timing of the setback has heightened concern, with the T20 World Cup scheduled to begin in February. Afridi remains a cornerstone of Pakistan’s white-ball plans, valued for his ability to strike early with the new ball and deliver under pressure at the death.
Early indications suggest the issue is being treated as a precaution. Team officials have stressed that they will not take any risks with his recovery as Pakistan aim to have their premier fast bowler fully fit for the challenges ahead on the global stage.
