Here's what Babar Azam has to say on Shaheen Afridi's injury

Pakistan will be without the services of pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi in the upcoming Asia Cup and home T20I series against England.

The 22-year-old has been advised 4-6 weeks of rest by the PCB Medical Advisory Committee and independent specialists following the latest scans and reports. He is expected to return to competitive cricket in October with the New Zealand T20I tri-series, which will be followed by the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup Australia 2022.

Shaheen had suffered a right knee ligament injury while fielding during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle.

Meanwhile, skipper Babar Azam admitted that they will miss Shaheen but his absence provides an opportunity to other pacers to step up and showcase their talent.

"Yes, we are feeling Shaheen's absence in the playing eleven. He has been doing efforts for the team and has been performing outstandingly too," Babar said while reviewing Pakistan's 3-0 series win against the Netherlands.

"But his ouster due to injury has also provided young bowlers to showcase their skills and grab the opportunity," he added.