Karachi, December 30, 2025: Pakistan’s left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi has been ruled out of the ongoing 15th edition of the Big Bash League (BBL) after sustaining a knee injury during Brisbane Heat’s match against the Adelaide Strikers on Saturday.
Taking to social media platform X, Shaheen expressed gratitude to his franchise and fans for their support during his debut BBL season. “I’m massively thankful to the Brisbane Heat team and fans for showering me with immense love and support,” he wrote.
The Pakistan ODI captain confirmed that he has been recalled by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for rehabilitation. “Due to an unexpected injury, I have been called back by the PCB and will have to take a rehab. Hopefully, I will be back on the field soon,” Shaheen added. “Meanwhile, I will be cheering for the amazing team.”
The 25-year-old featured in four matches for Brisbane Heat this season, claiming just two wickets at an economy rate of 11.19.
Shaheen is also not part of Pakistan’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, as both he and former captain Babar Azam were excluded from the refreshed squad due to their BBL commitments. Pakistan is scheduled to play three T20Is against Sri Lanka, followed by a home series against Australia at the end of January, as part of preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2025, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka.
The severity of Shaheen’s knee injury also raises questions over his availability for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which begins on 7 February in India and Sri Lanka.
