PCB optimistic of Shaheen Afridi playing World Cup after London rehab
On Pakistan’s tour of Sri Lanka, Shaheen Afridi injured his knee which kept him out of Asia Cup 2022. Following this injury to his right knee ligament, the medical staff prescribed a 4-6 week recovery period. Although now Shaheen is expected to get in shape for the T20I World Cup, which starts in October.
According to a PCB press statement, Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen will go to London to finish his recovery. While in London, Shaheen will be overseen by the PCB Medical Advisory Panel, which includes London-based Dr Imtiaz Ahmed and Dr Zafar Iqbal.
Update on Shaheen Shah Afridi
Details here ⤵️ https://t.co/KhYYXEtjpw
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) August 29, 2022
Even after Mohammad Hasnain was named as his successor, the 22-year-old stayed in the UAE with the rest of Pakistan’s team to complete his recuperation. However, after further evaluation of his status, the PCB Medical Advisory Panel has decided to transfer him to London so that he may work on returning before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022, which begins in less than two months. He is anticipated to be fully recovered before the tournament.
“Whilst in London, Shaheen will remain under the supervision of the PCB Medical Advisory Panel, which also comprises London-based Dr Imtiaz Ahmed and Dr Zafar Iqbal. Since 2016, Dr Imtiaz has been the Head of Medical Services at the Queens Park Rangers Football Club, while Dr Zafar is Head of Sports Medicine at the Crystal Palace Football Club since 2015 (having worked previously with Tottenham Hotspur FC, Liverpool FC and Kent County Cricket Club), ” the Pakistan Cricket Board said in an official media release.
Former India opener Aakash Chopra feels Shaheen Afridi’s injury has had a significant influence on Pakistan’s preparations for high stakes matches. “The pitch at Dubai has a lot of grass and help for the pacers. The absence of Shaheen Afridi has pushed back Pakistan quite significantly. They say that it’s ‘win the toss, win the match in Dubai, but I feel that India can beat Pakistan even after losing the toss as their bowling isn’t the same without Shaheen,” Aakash Chopra stated on Koo.
Every player of our playing 11 is a match winner. Wishing my team the best of luck for upcoming Asia Cup.
To the fans, keep me in your prayers for my quick recovery. I'll be back soon Inshallah pic.twitter.com/jW9gGpWWQX
— Shaheen Shah Afridi (@iShaheenAfridi) August 20, 2022
Dr Najeebullah Soomro, Chief Medical Officer of the PCB, stated that the left-arm pacer “needs uninterrupted, specialised knee expert treatment.” The Chief Medical Officer was also optimistic that the 22-year-old will be fully healthy for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in Australia in 2022.
“Shaheen Shah Afridi requires uninterrupted, dedicated knee specialist care and London offers some of the best sports medical and rehabilitation facilities in the world. In the best interest of the player, we have decided to send him there.The medical department will receive daily feedback on his progress whilst in London and we are confident Shaheen will return to full fitness before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup,” PCB Chief Medical Officer, Dr Najeebullah Soomro remarked in an official statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Pakistan began their Asia Cup 2022 campaign on Sunday, August 28th, when they were defeated by India by five wickets. Their next game will be against Hong Kong on September 2nd at Sharjah.
