Karachi, Dec 22:
Pakistan have suffered a blow with news that pacer Khurram Shazad will miss the remainder of his side’s ongoing Test series against Australia due to injury.
Shazad complained of soreness in his left side during Pakistan’s first ICC World Test Championship match against Australia in Perth and scans revealed the right-armer had picked up a stress fracture in his ribs and an abdominal muscle tear.
Pakistan released a statement on Thursday that revealed the news, with no timeframe given as to the expected recovery period the 24-year-old faces.
“Khurram Shazad has been ruled out of the Test series against Australia due to a stress fracture in his left 10th rib, as well as an abdominal muscle tear,” the statement read.
“Fast bowler Khurram Shahzad complained of discomfort in his left side during the first Test.
“PCB (Pakistan Cricket Board) will now consult a specialist in Australia after which a final management protocol will be established for the player.
“He will then return to the NCA (National Cricket Academy) in Lahore where he will continue his injury management and rehabilitation.” Shazad picked up the big scalp of Steve Smith in both innings during the first Test while collecting five wickets in total in an impressive debut and his absence will be felt as Pakistan attempt to regain some momentum over the remaining two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney.
Back-up quicks Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Jnr loom as the most likely replacements given they are already in Australia and in the touring party, with star pacer Naseem Shah sidelined for the tour with injury.
