Brisbane Heat CEO Terry Swenson and stand-in captain Xavier Bartlett shared their reactions after Pakistan left-arm pacer Shaheen Afridi was forced to end his Big Bash League (PBL) 15 campaign early due to injury.
Shaheen injured his knee during Brisbane Heat’s match against Adelaide Strikers on Saturday.
In a statement, Swenson thanked Afridi for his dedication and professionalism during his short tenure with the franchise.
“Although his season didn’t end the way he would have liked, Shaheen was a consummate professional and we were delighted to welcome him to Brisbane and the Heat,” Swenson said.
And off the field, he appreciated Afridi’s contribution, especially his guidance to the younger players.
“Our young bowlers have benefited greatly from his advice and suggestions, and he has had a strong influence on the team’s overall performance,” Swenson added.
We wish him a speedy recovery and all the best as he prepares for the T20 World Cup.
Bartlett echoed these sentiments, highlighting the 25-year-old paceman’s positive influence in the dressing room.
“The discussions I had with Shaheen and the other bowlers about bowling and match situations were invaluable. He integrated seamlessly into the team and it was a pleasure playing alongside him,” said Bartlett.
Shaheen took to social media platform X and expressed his gratitude to the franchise and fans for their support in his first BBL season.
He also confirmed that he has been recalled by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for rehabilitation.
The 25-year-old has played four matches in the BBL this year, picking up two wickets at an economy rate of 11.19.
Shaheen is not part of Pakistan’s T20I squad for the upcoming tour of Sri Lanka, as he and former captain Babar Azam have been ruled out due to their BBL commitments.
As part of preparations for the T20 World Cup 2025 co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, Pakistan will play three T20Is against Sri Lanka, followed by a home series against Australia in late January.
The extent of Shaheen’s knee injury also raises concerns over his availability for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, scheduled to begin on February 7 in India and Sri Lanka.