NEW DELHI: Shaheen Shah Afridi's debut Big Bash League season has gone from bad to worse, with the Pakistan left-arm pacer ruled out for the remainder of the tournament due to a knee injury after failing to make an impact with the ball. Afridi was forced off the field after suffering a knee problem during Brisbane Heat's match against the Adelaide Strikers on December 27.

This came as a massive blow for Heat, who are already dealing with fast-bowling injuries, with Spencer Johnson and Callum Vidler also sidelined due to back issues.

"After consulting with the Pakistan Cricket Board's medical staff during the past 24 hours, it was agreed that Shaheen would cut short his Big Bash League stint to return home for further treatment ahead of the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup," the team said in a statement on Tuesday evening.

Afridi's maiden Big Bash League campaign has fallen well short of expectations, despite him being the No.1 pick in this season's overseas players' draft.

He was taken out of the attack after delivering two beamers against the Melbourne Renegades, and his struggles continued in the following matches, where he conceded 49 and 35 runs in four overs respectively, managing just one wicket in each outing.

In his final appearance against the Strikers, Afridi bowled three overs for 26 runs before his injury curtailed the tournament.

Afridi expressed a mix of disappointment and gratitude. While he was clearly saddened by the injury that cut short his season with Brisbane Heat, he also emphasised how much he valued the experience.

"I have enjoyed myself a lot playing for Brisbane and I am sad that I will not be able to finish the season with the team," Shaheen said in a statement. "The BBL was everything I had heard it would be - lots of good, skilful cricket (and) I have enjoyed the challenge. I wish all the players and coaches the very best for the rest of the Big Bash and will applaud their efforts as they get closer to the finals."