Pakistani fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi was forced to call time on his maiden stint in the Big Bash League after suffering a knee injury while representing the Brisbane Heat.
The left winger suffered a cartilage injury while on field during the Heat’s latest win over the Adelaide Strikers at the Gabba on Saturday night.
Following consultations between Brisbane Heat and Pakistan Cricket Board medical staff, it was decided that Shaheen would return home for further treatment ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup, the club said in a statement on Tuesday.
A PCB spokesperson confirmed Dawn that Shaheen will return to Pakistan on Wednesday, adding that the severity of the injury and the potential timeline for recovery will be determined after meetings with board doctors upon his return.
Shaheen expressed disappointment at leaving the tournament prematurely but thanked the franchise and its fans for their hospitality.
“I really enjoyed playing for Brisbane and I am sad that I will not be able to finish the season with the team,” Shaheen said in a statement released by the club.
“The BBL was everything I had heard it said: lots of good, skillful cricket. I enjoyed the challenge.”
In a post on X, the point guard reiterated his gratitude to the Heat, stating that he had been recalled by the PCB to begin his rehabilitation. “I hope I will be back in the fields soon,” he wrote.
Shaheen featured in four matches for Brisbane Heat, taking two wickets at an average of 76.50.
Brisbane Heat general manager Terry Svenson praised Shaheen’s professionalism and impact on the team despite his brief stay.
“Even though his season didn’t end the way he would have liked, he was a thorough professional,” Svenson said. “Our young bowlers have benefited greatly from his advice and suggestions.”
Heat interim captain Xavier Bartlett also praised Shaheen’s contribution, describing his presence as a “great value” to the bowling group.
The Heat are currently exploring options to replace Shaheen for the remainder of the competition, while the 24-year-old will focus on his recovery as Pakistan prepare for the T20 World Cup, which will be held in February-March.
The pacer, however, has not been named in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka – which is scheduled to be played in the second week of January.
His and Babar Azam’s exclusion from the list is believed to be due to an agreement between Cricket Australia and its Pakistani counterpart that required certain domestic players to feature in the entire competition.
The BBL final will be played on January 25.
