Colombo, September 2023: Pakistan’s fast bowlers Naseem Shah faces uncertainty regarding their participation in the remaining matches of the Asia Cup due to injuries sustained during the Super Four game against India. These injuries have raised concerns about their availability for Pakistan’s next match against Sri Lanka and the final, should Pakistan qualify.
Injury Woes for Pakistan
During the Super Fours match, Haris Rauf experienced discomfort in his right flank, preventing him from taking the field on the following day. Naseem Shah, on the other hand, left the field during India’s innings on the reserve day due to a shoulder injury. These injuries hindered their participation in both batting and bowling aspects of the game.
Read More: Naseem Shah Grit and Tenacity Shine in Asia Cup 2023
VijayCricket.com
Back-up Players Called In
In response to these injuries, Pakistan has called up Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as back-up options. While the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not ruled Rauf and Naseem out of the tournament, their fitness remains under the observation of the team’s medical panel.
Precautionary Measures Ahead of ICC World Cup
A PCB media statement emphasized that these precautionary measures are taken to ensure the players’ fitness and well-being, especially with an eye on the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month. The PCB will only request replacements if Rauf or Naseem are ruled out for the next seven days.
World champions in 1️⃣9️⃣9️⃣2️⃣ – Imran Khan-led Pakistan clinched a memorable @cricketworldcup title after defeating England in the final by 22 runs 🏆
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) September 13, 2023
Scorecard: https://t.co/Y94K0IAvwR#CWC23 #WeHaveWeWill pic.twitter.com/XtRk5CVROp
Poor Performance Amid Injuries
These injuries come in the wake of Pakistan’s subpar performance against India, where all three premier fast bowlers, including Shaheen Shah Afridi, faced injury concerns at various points during the match. India’s dominant performance saw them amass 356 for 2 in their allotted 50 overs, while Pakistan struggled to mount a substantial chase, ultimately falling to a 228-run loss.
Conclusion about Injured Naseem Shah
The extent of Naseem Shah‘s injury is yet to be determined. This injury follows a previous scare where he injured his shoulder while attempting a dive earlier in the tournament. Despite these challenges, Pakistan hopes to regroup and compete at the highest level in the remaining matches of the Asia Cup 2023.
Alhamdullilah for the win today. Shukriya Lahore for the amazing support!!
— Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) September 6, 2023
A special shoutout to the Champ, @HarisRauf14 on the remarkable 50th wicket milestone!
All eyes are now set on the next match! Let's keep the momentum going! 💪#AsiaCup2023 pic.twitter.com/swWKduPpJr
