Shadab Khan Likely to Miss Asia Cup 2025 Due to Shoulder Injury

Pakistan cricket team’s vice-captain Shadab Khan is unlikely to participate in the upcoming Asia Cup 2025 as he continues to recover from a shoulder injury that recently required surgery. The leg-spinning all-rounder underwent a successful medical procedure earlier this month in London, following persistent pain and limited movement in his right shoulder that had impacted his performance over the last several months. Medical staff overseeing his recovery have confirmed that Shadab will need at least three months of rehabilitation, effectively ruling him out of competitive cricket until October. Given that the Asia Cup is scheduled to begin on September 9 in the UAE, chances of Shadab’s availability for the tournament are extremely slim.

The absence of Shadab Khan is considered a significant setback for Pakistan’s T20 squad. As a core member of the playing XI and a tactical leader on the field, his contributions with both bat and ball have been instrumental in Pakistan’s white-ball success in recent years. His ability to bowl tight overs, offer lower-order power-hitting, and contribute sharp fielding make him one of the most complete T20 cricketers in the squad. Moreover, his experience and calm demeanor in high-pressure situations have often helped guide the team in crucial matches.

Team management now faces the challenge of finding both a bowling replacement and a new vice-captain for the tournament. While no official announcements have been made, insiders suggest that Mohammad Haris, known for his aggressive batting and leadership skills at the domestic level, is being considered as a potential interim vice-captain. Other senior players, including Fakhar Zaman and Shaheen Shah Afridi, may also be in contention for leadership responsibilities. In terms of bowling replacements, names like Sufiyan Muqeem and Abrar Ahmed have surfaced as likely contenders to fill the spin-bowling slot vacated by Shadab. Both have impressed selectors with their recent domestic performances and are familiar with the UAE conditions.

Shadab Khan took to social media following his surgery, thanking fans for their prayers and confirming that he had begun his rehabilitation process. He stated that injuries are a natural part of a cricketer’s journey and emphasized that he will return to action only when he is fully fit. The PCB medical team, under the supervision of Dr. Sohail Saleem, is closely monitoring his recovery progress. While fans were hopeful of a quick comeback, the board appears to be prioritizing long-term fitness and availability, especially with the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 approaching.

The Asia Cup 2025 is expected to be a highly competitive tournament, with Pakistan scheduled to face strong sides including arch-rival India. The team’s preparation and final squad selection will be under scrutiny, especially as they navigate leadership changes and adjust to the absence of one of their most trusted performers. Shadab’s injury adds to a list of recent setbacks, including fitness issues among fast bowlers and fluctuating middle-order form. With less than two months left before the tournament, the PCB is expected to announce a revised squad and captaincy plan in the coming weeks.

While the fans will certainly miss seeing Shadab Khan in action, there remains cautious optimism that young players will step up and fill the void. His absence may also offer an opportunity for new talent to shine on the big stage and gain valuable experience ahead of future global tournaments. For now, all attention turns to how Pakistan restructures its plans without its dependable vice-captain, and whether the team can maintain its momentum in the Asia Cup without one of its most dynamic contributors.

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