BBL 2025-26: Big blow as Shaheen Afridi set to miss crucial match for injury

The injury of Pakistan pacer Shaheen Afridi seems more serious than it was predicted. On Saturday night, during the Brisbane Heat vs Adelaide Strikers Big Bash League 2025-26 (BBL 2025-26) match, Afridi left the field with a limping leg. He picked up a knee injury while fielding for Brisbane Heat. As per the latest reports, the fast bowler can miss the next match of BBL 2025-26.

Shaheen Afridi's poor form in the Australian franchise league continued as he conceded 19 runs in an over. Italian batter Harry Manenti took him apart during the 12th over in the second innings of the match. Things got worse later when Afridi picked up a knee injury while fielding, forcing him to limp off and take no further part in the contest. Ahead of the T20I World Cup, which is scheduled to start in February 2026, the injury of Afridi casts concerns for Pakistan.

At that moment, when Afridi vacated the field, the seriousness of the injury was unknown. Later, it was reported that he injured his knee. Latest reports suggest that the bowler is all set to miss the Adelaide Strikers vs Brisbane Heat match on December 31 at the Adelaide Oval in North Adelaide. Shaheen Afridi is now going through a rehab season. So, as of now, it is difficult to say when the seamer can make a comeback in competitive matches.

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Shaheen Afridi to miss next BBL match for injury

Without the service of Afridi, Brisbane Heat emerged as the winner against Adelaide Strikers by a narrow margin. Heat defended their total by only 7 runs. In this match, the 25-year-old conceded 26 runs in 3 overs without taking any wickets.

So far, the ongoing BBL season brings a rollercoaster ride for Brisbane Heat as they won in two and lost in two matches. With 4 points in four matches, the team is currently in the third spot of the eight-team tournament. Despite all the hype, Afridi's performance remains below par. In four matches for Brisbane Heat, he managed to claim only a couple of wickets so far.