Ahead of Eliminator against Peshawar Zalmi, Karachi Kings have suffered a huge setback. Maverick all-rounder Shahid Afridi has been ruled out of tonight’s Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2018 encounter following a knee injury. Earlier, on March 02 Afridi was ruled out as well following swelling in his knee. The all-rounder then made a comeback to the side. It is reported that Afridi’s injury has worsened and the all-rounder has been ruled out of the second Eliminator in Lahore. Interestingly, Afridi missed the last season’s final against Quetta Gladiators in Lahore as well due to an injury.

Afridi took to Twitter to announce his unavailability for tonight’s fixture. “Very disappointed at missing the match today. Like last yr PSL final in Lahore I won't be able to play due to injury in Pakistan. I wish Kings the very best, hope that we have another thrilling match and a win for Kings,” wrote Afridi.

Karachi Kings have already lost captain Imad Wasim, who suffered a concussion while fielding against Lahore Qalandars on March 11. In his absence, England cricketer Eoin Morgan led the side. Morgan has decided against traveling to Pakistan due to security concerns and Afridi was tipped to lead the side.

Now with Afridi out as well, Imad is likely to make a comeback. In case he fails to turn up for the match, fast bowler Mohammad Amir will be handed the captaincy duty in the all-important Eliminator against Peshawar Zalmi.

Meanwhile, Karachi Kings have added Mukhtar Ahmed, Zulfiqar Babar, and Danish Aziz to their squad.

Peshawar Zalmi, who defeated Quetta Gladiators in Eliminator 1 by one run, will also miss the services of Tamim Iqbal. The left-handed batsman is currently facing a knee issue.

The winner of Karachi Kings vs. Peshawar Zalmi will progress to final of PSL 2018. Islamabad United have already made it to the summit. The final of PSL 2018 will be played on March 25 in Karachi.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Mar 21, 2018 03:36 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).