After a blazing start with two wickets in first over, Shaheen Afridi only bowled 5 overs before leaving the pitch with discomfort.
Pakistan Cricket Team will be concerned. Their star pacer Shaheen Afridi has an injury scare. In the PAK vs NEP opener, Shaheen left the pitch after consulting with team doctor and physio. The left-arm fast bowler is crucial to Pakistan’s plans in IND vs PAK Asia Cup 2023 match on Sep 2 as well as their key to World Cup 2023 success.
Shaheen Afridi was excellent in the Asia Cup 2023 opener, bagging two wickets in his first over against Nepal. He bowled 5 overs with 2/27. But as he felt discomfort while fielding, the doctor advised him to leave the field.
With Multan temperature soaring above 38 degrees Celsius, it could be one reason for discomfort. And with India clash three days later, Pakistan did not want to take a chance, promptly sending Shaheen back to the dressing room.
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However, he was never quite in the rhythm. While sweltering heat and humidity could be a cause, Pakistan will be cautious with IND vs PAK just 3 days away.
Shaheen Afridi has been a difficult bowler to handle for the likes of Rohit Sharma. His inswinging deliveries have troubled Indian batters. India will be wary of his threat.
Shaheen Afridi missed Asia Cup 2022 with a knee injury. He could only bowl 2.1 overs in the T20 World Cup 2022 final against England. But with Asia Cup 2023 a crucial tournament ahead of World Cup 2023, Pakistan need their star pacer to be 100% fitness.
However, the short turnaround time along with a lot of travelling in Asia Cup does not help.
After Nepal clash in Multan, Shaheen Afridi will fly to Sri Lanka on Thursday for the mega clash against India at Pallekele on September 2. Within 24 hours (September 3), he will travel back to Lahore for Super Four game on September 6. Then, Pakistan will once again fly to Sri Lanka the next day for their match on September 9.
“As professionals, we are ready for any schedule that is given to us. There would be travelling as well as back-to-back games and we are ready for that. Our coaches and support staff have chalked out plans about how much we would utilise each player and also we have booked our flights in such a manner, that our travelling schedule gives enough time to rest,” Babar Azam said at the pre-match press conference.