Shaheen Afridi Injury Scare in Pakistan’s Asia Cup Campaign
The Highlight
Shaheen Afridi suffered an injury scare during the Nepal game.
Photo: IANS
Key Highlights
- Shaheen Afridi took two wickets in the first over
- Pakistan beat Nepal by 238 runs
- Shaheen Afridi walked off the field during the Nepal innings
Introduction
While all eyes are on the blockbuster India-Pakistan clash in the 2023 Asia Cup set to take place on Saturday (September 2), the Men in Green started their campaign in the tournament against Nepal on Wednesday (August 30) at the Multan International Cricket Stadium.
Babar Azam Shines
In what is the first multi-nation tournament match taking place on Pakistani soil for 15 years, skipper Babar Azam lit up the occasion by scoring his 19th ODI century. Babar played a brilliant knock of 151 in 131 balls, which included 14 boundaries and four sixes. Iftikhar Ahmed scored the maiden ODI century of his career to help Pakistan post a total of 342 on the board.
Shaheen Afridi’s Performance
The ever-consistent Shaheen Afridi was at his vintage best as he took two wickets in the first over of Nepal’s innings. Shaheen lived up to the name he has made for himself as being one of the most fearsome pacers to face in world cricket with the new ball.
However, panic spread in the Pakistan fanbase later in the Nepal innings as Shaheen was spotted having a long chat with the team doctor near the boundary line. The tension aggravated as the left-arm pacer walked off the field after bowling five overs, with Pakistan cricket legend Waqar Younis’ on-air remark in the commentary box adding weight to injury concerns for Shaheen.
Return to the Field
“I don’t mind physio around a fast bowler at third man or fine leg. But when the doctor comes, that’s when it gets a little worrying. Shaheen has both of them around him,” said Waqar in the commentary box.
Shaheen returned to the field after a few minutes suggesting there was no major issue. However, he did not bowl another over after that.
Upcoming Matches
The India-Pakistan clash will take place in Sri Lanka, which is the co-host of the tournament. The Pallekele International Stadium in Kandy will host the clash, which will be the first game of the tournament for Rohit Sharma & Co. India will later face Nepal on September 4 at the same venue.
