Shaheen Afridi ruled out of BBL; to undergo rehab at Lahore

By Alam Zeb Safi
LAHORE: The Big Bash League (BBL) has been dealt a major blow with Pakistani fast-bowling star Shaheen Shah Afridi ruled out for the remainder of the season because of a knee injury, his franchise Brisbane Heat said.
Afridi, one of the tournament’s headline signings, was taken by the Heat with the first pick in this year’s overseas player draft but will return home for treatment after sustaining a cartilage injury while fielding in the final over of Brisbane’s win over Adelaide on Saturday night.
The decision was made jointly by Brisbane Heat and the Pakistan Cricket Board, with the left-arm quick set to undergo further assessment and rehabilitation in Pakistan.
“I have enjoyed myself a lot playing for Brisbane and I am sad that I will not be able to finish the season with the team,” Afridi said in a statement.
“I am massively thankful to the Heat fans for showering me with immense love and support. I am also grateful for the support of the team and their amazing hospitality.
“The BBL was everything I had heard it would be – lots of good, skillful cricket. I have enjoyed the challenge.
“I will be cheering for the team while recovering from my unexpected injury and I hope our paths cross again.”
Afridi’s maiden BBL campaign was a brief one. He took two wickets across his appearances, with his debut curtailed after he was removed from the attack for bowling two no-balls. Despite limited returns, his presence was seen as a major boost for Brisbane’s bowling group, particularly for the development of younger players.
The Heat have won two of their four matches so far this season and are now without two key fast bowlers, with Spencer Johnson also ruled out of the tournament.
Brisbane Heat chief executive Terry Svenson praised Afridi’s impact off the field despite his short stay.
“Despite his season not finishing the way he would have liked, he has been a thorough professional and we have been pleased to welcome him to Brisbane and the Heat,” Svenson said.
“I know our young bowlers in the squad have benefitted greatly from his advice and suggestions, and he has had strong input into the team’s performances overall.
“We wish him a speedy recovery and all the best in his preparations now for the T20 World Cup.”
Afridi’s absence leaves Brisbane to reshuffle their bowling resources as the Heat look to maintain momentum in the early stages of the BBL season.