Pakistan’s fast bowler, Naseem Shah, faces a daunting challenge as a more severe right shoulder injury than initially thought threatens his chances of participating in the entire ODI World Cup.
This injury, incurred during a game against India in the recent Asia Cup, forced him to leave the field during the 46th over. Subsequent scans have revealed damage to a muscle just below his bowling shoulder, with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) seeking a second opinion to determine the extent of the injury.
If the secondary scans confirm the initial diagnosis, Naseem may undergo an extended recovery period, raising doubts about his participation in the upcoming Test series in Australia and the Pakistan Super League.
This setback poses a significant challenge for Pakistan, as Naseem has become a versatile bowler in all formats, making him a crucial component of their bowling lineup alongside Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf.
The PCB is expected to make an official decision once the results of the secondary scans become available in the coming days. During Naseem’s absence in the Asia Cup, Zaman Khan stepped in, but Pakistan is also grappling with potential replacements as Mohammad Hasnain is currently nursing an injury.
