Pakistan’s key bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, has resumed training following an injury hiatus, boosting the team’s prospects for the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup. Afridi, who sustained an injury during the Big Bash League, recently bowled and batted for 15 minutes each in practice, signaling a positive recovery.
The Pakistan Cricket Board’s medical team expressed optimism about Afridi’s progress, emphasizing his crucial role in the team’s bowling lineup for the World Cup. Initial concerns about Afridi missing the tournament due to a knee issue have eased, with reports suggesting his potential return for the series against Australia.
Dr. Javed Mughal, the head of Pakistan’s medical panel, oversaw Afridi’s rehabilitation process and recommended precautionary measures to ensure his fitness. The medical team is advising gradual reintroduction to bowling, with plans to avoid risking Afridi in matches before the World Cup to prioritize his readiness.
Afridi’s injury occurred during his stint with Brisbane Heat in the Big Bash League, prompting his withdrawal and return to Lahore for further assessment. Despite initial doubts, sources close to Afridi remain confident about his availability for the T20 World Cup, where he is a key inclusion in Pakistan’s preliminary squad, pending fitness clearance.
Pakistan recently played a T20I series against Sri Lanka without Afridi, Babar Azam, and Haris Rauf, who were involved in the Big Bash League. The team is gearing up for their World Cup campaign, commencing with matches against the Netherlands and the USA before a highly anticipated clash against India on February 15.
