Salman Ali Agha provides update on Shaheen Afridi’s fitness ahead of T20 World Cup 2026

Pakistan T20I captain Salman Ali Agha has provided an update on the fitness of star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi ahead of the T20 World Cup 2026, set to be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka next month. As part of their preparations for the marquee event, Pakistan are scheduled to play a three-match T20I series against Sri Lanka.

Agha confirmed that Afridi is currently undergoing rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), adding that the team management remains optimistic about his recovery timeline. Pakistan will face Sri Lanka in the three-match T20I series at Dambulla, with matches scheduled for January 7, 9, and 11.

"Shaheen is currently doing rehab at the NCA and we hope he will be fit before the T20 World Cup,” said Agha in the press conference.

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Afridi recently made his debut in the Big Bash League (BBL) but endured a challenging stint with the Brisbane Heat, picking up just two wickets in four matches. During the tournament, the 25-year-old suffered a setback to his left knee, which has since ruled him into a rehabilitation program.

Agha also addressed selection matters, confirming that Babar Azam will miss the Sri Lanka series due to his BBL commitments. With both Babar and Afridi unavailable, Pakistan have opted to field a youthful squad, offering opportunities to emerging players as part of their preparations for the T20 World Cup.

"Babar and Shaheen are megastars, but the players we have brought here are very good as well. We wanted to give them a chance. There are a few players who are the future of Pakistan cricket, and hopefully, they will perform well,” said Agha.

In a significant development, Shadab Khan has returned to the Pakistan side after recovering from a shoulder injury. His strong performances in the BBL impressed the selectors and reaffirmed his readiness for a return to international cricket.

"He came back from a long injury and did well in the BBL. Managing all those spinners and all-rounders is going to be tough, but to be honest, it's like a luxury for us to have so many all-rounders who can bat and bowl in any condition,” said Agha.