In a major blow to Pakistan’s cricket squad, vice-captain Shadab Khan is likely to miss the Asia Cup 2025 due to a shoulder injury that has sidelined him for several months.
The star all-rounder underwent shoulder surgery in the UK earlier in July and was subsequently ruled out of the recent series against Bangladesh. He is also not part of the squad for the ongoing West Indies tour.
The Asia Cup 2025 (T20 format) is scheduled to take place in the UAE from September 9 to 28, while medical experts estimate that Shadab will require a minimum of three months for complete rehabilitation. This timeline indicates that he may only regain match fitness by October, post-Asia Cup.
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Despite the looming absence of their T20 vice-captain, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet announced any official replacement or a potential alternate leadership option for the tournament.
Key Fixtures
Pakistan’s Asia Cup campaign is set to begin on September 12 against Oman, followed by the high-stakes clash with India on September 14.
Shadab Khan’s absence is expected to leave a significant gap in Pakistan’s spin department and lower-order batting, raising questions about team balance and experience heading into the continental tournament.
