CHRISTCHURCH: After missing the Asia Cup in the UAE, the seven-match T20I series against England, and the Tri-series currently taking place in New Zealand due to a right knee ligament injury, Pakistan will have the services of their pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi for the two warm-up games against England and Afghanistan prior to the ICC T20 World Cup in Australia.

After completing a rehabilitation programme under the guidance of the PCB Medical Advisory Committee, the young fast bowler, who destroyed India in Pakistan's 10-wicket victory over its bitter rivals in the 2021 T20 World Cup in the UAE, will join the Babar Azam-led team in Australia.

The team will play India in the highly anticipated Super 12 encounter on October 23 at the Melbourne Cricket Ground following the two pregame contests on October 17 and 19, respectively.

Shaheen was quoted by the ICC as stating, "I am really excited at the thought of re-joining the national squad for the T20 World Cup and playing my part in the tournament." Being away from the sport and the team I support most and missing out on some gruelling and thrilling games has been difficult for me. For the past ten days, I have been bowling six to eight overs with a full run-up and tempo without any issues. While I have enjoyed bowling and hitting in the nets, there is nothing that can compare to the atmosphere of a match, and I am eager to experience it.

The management of the team will evaluate Shaheen's match readiness during the two exhibition games. Shaheen Afridi had left for London to finish her recovery after suffering a ligament injury to the right knee.

"The rehabilitation programme has been demanding and difficult, but I have greatly liked it. Since I am in better physical shape than ever, I am eager to put on the playing gear," he said.

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