After scans revealed that Naseem Shah’s right shoulder injury was worse than first thought. It is likely that he will miss the entire World Cup. The PCB is reportedly seeking a second opinion. Although scans from examinations in Dubai seem to indicate the injury may prevent him from playing for the remainder of the year. In a statement issued on Saturday night, the board stated. The PCB medical panel will decide on the fast bowler’s return to cricket based on further assessments.”
If more results confirm the preliminary ones, Naseem might be in for a protracted layoff. He might not play in the upcoming Test series in Australia, and the 2024 edition of the Pakistan Super League is also a possibility.
What leads to Injury
Last week, on the reserve day scheduled for that match. Naseem left the pitch in the middle of the 46th over in Pakistan’s second match against India at the Asia Cup. He was quickly eliminated from the competition. Ironically, the PCB had lobbied for that reserve day for the game against India. As a hard-won concession following the refusal to transfer the games to Hambantota. Which was predicted to be the drier. Naseem suffered a muscle strain immediately below his bowling shoulder on that reserve day, which, according to ESPNcricinfo, is not a repeat of any past shoulder issues.
Huge Loss
The loss of Naseem from the World Cup and the ensuing series in Australia will be devastating for Pakistan. For Pakistan, Naseem has transformed over the past year from a red-ball specialist to an all-format bowler. On his present form, Naseem is the best of Pakistan’s renowned trio of Naseem, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Haris Rauf.
When the PCB receives the results of his secondary scans in a few days, it is anticipated to make an official decision. Zaman Khan took his place at the Asia Cup because Mohammad Hasnain, another potential substitute, is now injured.
Naseem’s Replacement
According to reports, the PCB will reportedly make a final judgement after receiving the findings of his secondary tests in a few days. Shah was replaced by Zaman Khan at the Asia Cup. As Mohammad Hasnain, a potential substitute, is currently injured as well. Prior to this, Shah suffered a back ailment that prevented him from playing cricket for 14 months, one year after making his international debut.
Since making his ODI debut, he has been Pakistan’s most productive bowler. He takes 32 wickets in 14 games while average slightly under 17.