Shaheen Afridi travels to London to complete knee rehab

Pakistan fast bowler Shaheen Afridi departs for London to complete rehabilitation, stated the PCB media release.

Shaheen was ruled out of the ongoing Asia Cup after being advised a 4-6 weeks rest by the medical team following an injury to the right knee ligament. He had copped an injury while fielding during the first Test against Sri Lanka in Galle in July.

The 22-year-old was in the UAE with the rest of Pakistan's squad to continue his rehabilitation even after Mohammad Hasnain was announced as his replacement.

However, further assessment of his situation has prompted the PCB Medical Advisory Panel to send him to London so he can work on returning before the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2022 begins in less than two months.

He is expected to regain complete fitness before the event.

"Shaheen Shah Afridi requires uninterrupted, dedicated knee specialist care and London offers some of the best sports medical and rehabilitation facilities in the world. In the best interest of the player, we have decided to send him there," PCB Chief Medical Officer, Dr Najeebullah Soomro said.

The release further stated: Whilst in London, Shaheen will remain under the supervision of the PCB Medical Advisory Panel, which also comprises London-based Dr Imtiaz Ahmad and Dr Zafar Iqbal.  Since 2016, Dr Imtiaz has been the Head of Medical Services at the Queens Park Rangers Football Club, while Dr Zafar is Head of Sports Medicine at the Crystal Palace Football Club since 2015 (having worked previously with Tottenham Hotspur FC, Liverpool FC and Kent County Cricket Club).

Pakistan started their Asia Cup 2022 campaign on Sunday, 28 August, where they lost to India by five wickets. Their next match against Hong Kong will be played on 2 September in Sharjah.