New Delhi: Pakistan's star pace bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi said he cannot wait any longer to join his national team for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Australia. Afridi will join the Pakistan team for the T20 World Cup 2022 in Brisbane on October 15, after completing his rehab. As per Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Shaheen will be available for selection in the warm-up matches against England and Afghanistan on October 17 and 19.
“I am super excited at the prospect of rejoining the national side for the T20 World Cup and playing my part in the campaign," Shaheen was quoted as saying by ICC. "It has been a difficult period for me to be away from the game and the team I love the most, and not be part of some gruelling and exciting matches.
“I have been bowling six to eight overs trouble-free for the past 10 days with full run-up and pace. While I have enjoyed bowling and batting in the nets, nothing can replace the feel of match environment and I can’t wait to be in that setting.
“It has been a rigorous and challenging rehabilitation programme, but I have thoroughly enjoyed it. To be honest, I am feeling fitter than ever before and can’t wait to wear the playing kit."
Shaheen was in rehab at the Crystal Palace Football Club in London under the supervision of PCB. He had injured his right knee during the Test series played between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in July. Due to this, he was ruled out of the Asia Cup 2022 as well. The PCB's medical team and management will assess Afridi's match fitness during the two warm up matches in Australia.
Pakistan cricket team will clash against India in their first T20 World Cup match on 23rd October at the Melbourne Cricket Ground.