PAK vs SL: "It Is A Big Blow" - Pakistan Bowling Coach Morne Morkel On Naseem Shah Being Ruled Out Of Asia Cup 2023

Pakistan bowling coach Morne Morkel expressed disappointment over young pacer Naseem Shah’s absence due to injury in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Morne Morkel emphasised that Naseem Shah’s injury is a big blow for the team, but also provides an opportunity for other players.

Naseem Shah sustained a shoulder injury during the Super Four match against India, leading him to leave the field without completing his bowling quota. The right-arm pacer’s injury will be monitored by the PCB medical team, considering the much-awaited ODI World Cup 2023, which is set to begin on October 5.

Naseem Shah Picked Some Little Niggles – Mornel Morkel

During the pre-match press conference, Morne Morkel said he was eager to see new players showcase their character in the upcoming match against Sri Lanka.

“Obviously, it is a big blow (absence of Naseem). It is unfortunate that he picked some little niggles. But what a fantastic opportunity for the guys you know coming in. After going down against India, it’s a must win game for us tomorrow. I’m quite excited to see new guys stepping in and showing some character,” said Morkel.

The PCB has announced Zaman Khan as the replacement for Naseem Shah for the remainder of the tournament. Zaman is set to make his ODI debut in their final Super Four match at the R. Premadasa Stadium in Colombo on Thursday, September 14.

We Were Bitterly Disappointed – Morne Morkel

The former South African pacer mentioned that the setback against India would provide valuable lessons for Pakistan and contribute to their improvement for the upcoming World Cup.

“After the India match, we were bitterly disappointed. For me, it is very important for the bowlers to do a bit of self-reflection, ask yourself the hard questions. Yes, credit must also go to the Indian batters,” he further added.

“They put us under pressure early. Those are fantastic lessons for us before the World Cup. We are gonna grow from this and come back stronger,” Morkel concluded.

Pakistan’s fast bowler Haris Rauf also faced an injury issue during the match against India. Rauf did not participate in the game on the reserve day, when India secured a convincing 228-run victory. However, the PCB has not made any official announcement yet about his progress.

Also read: PAK vs SL: Shoulder Injury Rules Naseem Shah Out Of The Tournament, Haris Rauf Unavailable Too