Pakistan's T20 captain, Salman Ali Agha, has voiced cautious optimism regarding star fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi's recovery from a knee injury, raising hopes for his participation in the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup next month.
Race Against Time for Pace Spearhead
Speaking to the media in Dambulla on Wednesday, where Pakistan is set to face Sri Lanka in the first match of a three-game T20I series, Salman stated the team is hopeful of Afridi's return to full fitness. The final decision, however, will rest with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) based on medical advice. Afridi, a vital component of Pakistan's bowling attack, is currently undergoing a rigorous rehabilitation program. He is being supervised by the PCB's medical panel at the High Performance Centre in Lahore.
The PCB released a video earlier on Wednesday showing the left-arm pacer engaged in rehabilitation exercises. However, the board did not disclose the exact severity of the injury or a concrete timeline for his comeback. Afridi originally sustained the injury while fielding during a Big Bash League (BBL) match in Australia for the Brisbane Heat. The franchise subsequently released him, prompting his recall by the PCB for specialized treatment.
Injury History Adds to Concern
This latest setback has caused significant anxiety within the Pakistan camp, as it is not the first time the 23-year-old has faced knee problems. He suffered a similar injury in 2021 while fielding during a Test match in Galle, Sri Lanka, which kept him out of action for several months. His availability is considered absolutely crucial for Pakistan's campaign in the World Cup, which will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka. Pakistan is scheduled to play all its World Cup matches in Sri Lanka.
Series as Crucial Preparation
Captain Salman Ali Agha also commented on the team's composition, stating that Pakistan has assembled a well-balanced squad for both the ongoing Sri Lanka series and the global tournament. He emphasized the importance of the current tour as vital preparation. "This series will help the players a lot for the World Cup, especially those who haven't played that much cricket in Sri Lanka," he said. The experience gained in local conditions is expected to be invaluable for the team's World Cup ambitions.
As the countdown to the T20 World Cup continues, all eyes will be on Shaheen Afridi's recovery progress. The PCB's medical panel faces the critical task of ensuring the premier fast bowler is match-ready without risking a long-term aggravation of his knee condition.
