Pakistan faced a setback on Thursday as pace bowler Khurram Shahzad was ruled out of the series against Australia due to injury. Shahzad, who made an impressive debut in Perth with match figures of 5-128, complained of discomfort and subsequent scans revealed a stress fracture in the ribs and an abdominal muscle tear.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stated that Shahzad will consult a specialist in Australia to establish a final management protocol. Afterward, he will return to Lahore for further injury management and rehabilitation.
With speedster Naseem Shah already omitted from the tour due to a long-term injury and spinner Abrar Ahmed recovering from leg discomfort, Pakistan’s bowling attack faces challenges. However, there is potential relief as Ahmed may return for the second Test in Melbourne starting on December 26. Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim are also in the squad as potential replacements for the injured Shahzad.
Pakistan, seeking their first Test win in Australia since 1995, suffered a significant blow with the absence of Shahzad and Naseem Shah.
