Pakistan's Shaheen Afridi Eyes T20 World Cup Return After Knee Injury

Shaheen Afridi, Pakistan's star pacer, is on track to recover from a knee injury in time for the T20 World Cup 2026. The 25-year-old is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) High Performance Centre in Lahore, with his progress being closely monitored by the medical team. Afridi suffered the knee injury while playing for Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League (BBL) and was recalled by the PCB for treatment. His captain, Salman Ali Agha, expressed optimism about Afridi's recovery, saying, "We are hopeful he will be fit for the World Cup, but the final decision will come from the Board on advice from the medical panel". Afridi played four games for Heat, conceding 11.19 runs per over in return for just two wickets. He was removed by the umpires from the attack in his very first game for dangerous bowling, after bowling two full tosses above waist height. He has, however, been in better form for his country in the format, ending last year as the third-highest wicket-taker after the spinners Mohammad Nawaz and Abrar Ahmed. Afridi himself is positive about his recovery, stating, "My rehab is ongoing, with the PCB team monitoring it. I'm doing gym work and working on my batting at the moment. I'll start bowling next week. It's not as serious as it was last time".