PAK vs AUS: Khurram Shahzad Ruled Out For The Remainder Of Test Series Against Australia

Young Pakistan pacer Khurram Shahzad has been ruled out of the remaining two Tests in the ongoing red-ball series against Australia. Khurram Shahzad will miss the matches due to a rib stress fracture and abdominal muscle tear, a massive blow for the Pakistan team.

Shahzad made his international debut during the first Test against Australia at the Optus Stadium in Perth. The pacer impressed on his debut, taking five wickets in two innings. He dismissed Steve Smith, Mitchell Marsh, David Warner, and Marnus Labuschagne.

Khurram Shahzad faced side soreness during his debut Test in Perth, prompting scans before the Boxing Day Test. Unfortunately, the scans revealed a fracture in his left tenth rib, ruling him out of participation in the upcoming Test matches in Melbourne and Sydney.

Khurram Shahzad will Return To The NCA In Lahore – PCB

The PCB, as reported by ESPN Cricinfo, has announced that has announced that they will consult with a specialist in Australia to establish a final management protocol for Khurram Shahzad. Following this consultation, He will return to the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore to continue injury management and rehabilitation.

“PCB 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 in Lahore where he will continue his injury management and rehabilitation,” a statement said.

Naseem Shah was already ruled out of the tour due to injury, and Abrar Ahmed missed the first Test due to discomfort in his right leg, casting doubts on his availability for the series. This latest setback adds to the growing concerns for Pakistan’s bowling resources.

Pakistan might consider Hasan Ali or Mohammad Wasim Jr. as potential replacements for the next Test. To prepare for the upcoming match, the team is scheduled to play a two-day practice game against a Victorian XI at the Junction Oval, commencing on December 22.

Pakistan Suffers 360-Run Defeat In Series Opener

The Shan Masood-led team endured a crushing 360-run defeat in the series opener in Australia. The Pakistani bowlers conceded 487 runs to the opposition after losing the toss. Opener David Warner, who is playing his farewell Test series, scored 164 runs off 211 balls.

The Pakistan team started their first innings on a good note, reaching 123/1. However, they experienced a collapse and were bowled out for just 271 runs. Opener Imam ul Haq (62) was the only player to score a half-century for the Pakistan team in the first innings.

Australia declared their second innings at 233/5, setting a target of 450. The visiting team collapsed for just 89 runs, suffering a 360-run defeat in the first Test in Perth. With this loss, Pakistan is 1-0 down in the series. They haven’t won a Test in Australia since 1995.

The upcoming match between Australia and Pakistan will take place at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG) from December 26 to 30. The third and final Test is scheduled to be played at the Sydney Cricket Ground (SCG) from January 3 to 7.

Also read: PAK vs AUS: Khurram Shahzad Doubtful For Boxing Day Test As Injury Woes Grapple Pakistan