Pakistan’s Test squad has suffered a major setback ahead of the upcoming Test series against the West Indies and England, as national batter Abdullah Fazal has been ruled out of both series due to injury.
According to a spokesperson for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Abdullah Fazal sustained a serious lower back injury during a training session at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad on July 23.
Following the injury, the batter underwent a medical examination and an MRI scan, which confirmed the lower back injury.
The PCB spokesperson said the board’s medical panel conducted a detailed assessment and concluded that Abdullah Fazal will require an extended period of rehabilitation to make a full recovery. As a result, he has been withdrawn from both Test series to ensure he regains full fitness.
The spokesperson added that no immediate decision has been made regarding Abdullah Fazal’s replacement for the Test series against the West Indies. A replacement will be announced at an appropriate time if the team management deems it necessary.
Abdullah Fazal’s absence is considered a significant blow to Pakistan, as he had been in excellent form and was expected to play a key role at the top of the batting order.
The stage is set for the Pakistan-West Indies Test series as captains Babar Azam and Roston Chase unveiled the series trophy at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy ahead of the opening match.
The first Test between the two sides will begin on July 25, marking the start of Pakistan’s tour of the West Indies. Ahead of the opening match of Pakistan’s West Indies tour, the national team management has begun initial discussions regarding the playing XI.
According to sources, Pakistan are considering going into the first Test with seven specialist batsmen. Azan Owais, Imam-ul-Haq, Shan Masood, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan are expected to feature in the playing XI.
Salman Ali Agha is also likely to be included and will take on the role of the fifth bowling option. Amir Jamal and Mohammad Abbas are also expected to be part of the team.
There is a strong possibility that left-arm specialist spinner Ali Usman could make his Test debut, while one of the fast bowlers, Khurram Shahzad or Mohammad Ali, may also be included in the final XI.
Read more: Pakistan-West Indies test series set to begin as captains reveal trophy