With the T20 World Cup fast approaching, Pakistan’s premier fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi has suffered a knee injury while playing in Australia’s Big Bash League, raising concerns over his short-term availability.

Shaheen Afridi picked up the injury during Brisbane Heat’s match against the Adelaide Strikers on Saturday. According to sources, the fast bowler experienced discomfort in his knee that lasted for nearly an hour during the game.

Brisbane Heat confirm injury

The Brisbane Heat confirmed that Shaheen has suffered a knee injury and that his rehabilitation process has begun. The franchise said his knee will be examined further once the team returns from Adelaide.

🚨 MAJOR UPDATE ON SHAHEEN AFRIDI 🚨

- PCB has recalled Shaheen Afridi from the Big Bash League.

- He will continue his rehabilitation in Lahore. [Saleem Khaliq] pic.twitter.com/L7pseJ25kD
— usman (@Cricbyusman) December 30, 2025

Brisbane Heat also confirmed that Shaheen Afridi will not take part in the upcoming match against Adelaide Strikers. Team officials said the decision was taken to avoid any risk of aggravating the injury.

Set to return home

Sources revealed that Shaheen Afridi will leave the Big Bash League and return home tonight as a precautionary measure. With the T20 World Cup drawing closer, team management is reportedly keen to ensure his full fitness.

I’m massively thankful to the *Brisbane Heat* team and fans for showering me with immense love and support.💌

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 in the fields soon. 🏏

Meanwhile, I will be… pic.twitter.com/jsSS2oYGP6
— Shaheen Afridi (@iShaheenAfridi) December 30, 2025

After returning home, Shaheen is expected to begin rehabilitation at Pakistan’s High Performance Center, sources said. Officials stressed that the decision to pull him out of the league was taken purely as a precaution, keeping the World Cup in mind.