PCB to announce Shaheen Shah Afridi’s replacement in Asia Cup 2022 squad

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is to announce Shaheen Shah Afridi’s replacement in a short course since the left-arm pacer has been ruled out of Pakistan’s Asia Cup 2022 squad. Afridi will no more be seen rendering his deadly terrific services to the team following his exclusion due to an injury.

He sustained a knee injury during the last month’s Test against Sri Lanka in Galle. Unfortunately, he has not yet fully recovered. The PCB is carrying along the medical team to look after the team.

Pakistani skipper Babar Azam already narrated the uncertainty regarding Shaheen’s participation in Asia Cup 2022. Discussing the aspect before the team’s departure to the Netherlands, he revealed the pacer will miss the first two Pak vs NED ODIs, and will ‘hopefully’ return for the third, including Asia Cup 2022.

To replace him in the squad, PCB might name out-of-form Hasan Ali. Adding the fast bowler can be a huge liability for the team following his poor form for a long. Another possible option might be Mir Hamza, another left-arm bowler. The current bowling line-up is now totally inexperienced and might cost a few of the matches.

PCB Chief Medical Officer, Dr Najeebullah Soomro: “I have spoken with Shaheen and he is understandably upset with the news, but he is brave young man who has vowed to come back strongly to serve his country and team. Although he has made progress during his rehabilitation in Rotterdam, it is now clear he will require more time and is likely to return to competitive cricket in October.

“PCB’s Sports & Exercise Medicine Department will be working closely with the player over the coming weeks to ensure his safe return to competitive cricket.”

Pakistan will kick start their journey in the Asia Cup 2022 against India on August 28th.

Also, see:

Pak vs NED: Shaheen ruled out of first two ODIs