Will Shaheen Shah Afridi play Asia Cup 2022?

Pakistan’s frontline bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi is not yet fully recovered from a knee injury. He missed last month’s Test match versus Sri Lanka and is still in recovery mode. It has raised questions regarding his participation in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022.

Although the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has named him in both squads; Pakistan vs Netherlands three-match ODI series and Asia Cup 2022, there is uncertainty about his participation following his partially recovered injury.

Babar Azam, while talking in a press conference before flying to the Netherlands, narrated that the medical team is flying along the squad to look after Shaheen. He further mentioned Shaheen’s chances to play Pak vs NED series but is optimistic that he can get at least one game.

If Pak vs NED series becomes impossible for Shaheen, he is likely to feature in the upcoming Asia Cup 2022 on getting fully recovered. The PCB is doing all in its power to get the key bowler ready before the big cricket events.

“There are concerns over Shaheen’s fitness. We are taking him along because the doctor and the physio are travelling with the team so that he can be looked after well. We are thinking from a long-term perspective. There is the Asia Cup and the World Cup as well,”

“We are trying to ensure he can get ready as soon as possible. We are hoping that he can play at least one match in the Netherlands. If not, then hopefully he can play in the Asia Cup.”

He further discussed that the squad that had been named would feature in Asia Cup and clarified that no changes would be made.

“After consultation with the coach and selectors, the best team has been selected. The Asia Cup is immediately after the Netherlands tour, so there is no possibility of a change in the team,”

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