Pakistan speedster Shaheen Shah Afridi is set to be away from international cricket until April 2023, after undergoing an appendicitis operation in Islamabad. This effectively rules him out of the three home Tests against England and two Tests to follow against New Zealand.

Shaheen confirmed the same on his Twitter account, as he wrote, “Had an appendectomy today but Alhumdulillah feeling better. Remember me in your prayers.”

"He (Afridi) underwent a surgical procedure to remove the appendicitis today and doctors have now advised him at least six weeks rest before he can return to cricket activities," a source in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) told PTI.

As per the source, after Afridi completes the six weeks of rest, he will undergo two weeks of rehabilitation for the knee injury he sustained during the T20 World Cup semi-final.

"This basically means he is definitely ruled out of the three Tests against England being held in December while he will also not be able to appear in the two Tests against New Zealand that follow," the PTI source added.

According to the source, Afridi is unlikely to be risked by the PCB in international cricket until April.

"Even his participation in the Pakistan Super League will depend on his recovery progress but it will also be the decision of his franchise when and how they play him in the league," the source said.

Meanwhile, PCB chairman Ramiz Raja wished the fast bowler a speedy recovery on Twitter. He wrote, “Get well soon. Prayers and wishes.”

Afridi's pace bowling partner Haris Rauf also tweeted his wishes and expressed support to him. He wrote, “Get well soon my buddy, champion, Tiger. I am always with you as a brother.”