Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has been ruled out of the ongoing National Champions Cup 2026 after fracturing his right middle finger.
Nawaz sustained the injury while fielding for Pakistan Gold during their match against Pakistan Blues on August 12 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. The news was confirmed by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
Despite the injury, Nawaz completed his full quota of 10 overs, conceding 44 runs without taking a wicket. Pakistan Gold went on to lose the match by six wickets.
Nawaz underwent scans on August 13, confirming the fracture. According to the PCB, the injury is expected to keep him sidelined for at least three weeks.
The board said Nawaz will report to its Sports and Exercise Medicine Department after two weeks, where he will begin conditioning work and undergo the required Return-to-Play (RTP) protocols under the supervision of the medical team.
The match against Pakistan Blues turned out to be Nawaz’s only appearance in this year’s National Champions Cup. He scored eight runs with the bat, in addition to his bowling figures of 0 for 44 from 10 overs.
Nawaz’s absence is expected to be a setback for Pakistan Gold, given his all-round utility with both bat and ball. The PCB has not yet announced a replacement for him in the squad.
Previously, the National Cricket Champions Cup unveiled tournament trophy ahead of the competition. Captains of all four participating teams attended the trophy unveiling ceremony.
Pakistan Gold captain Shaheen Shah Afridi said the National Champions Cup would help selectors identify and build a strong squad for the upcoming World Cup. Pakistan Blues captain Sahibzada Farhan described the Champions Cup as an important tournament for him and his career.
Also read: National Cricket Champions Cup set to begin in Multan as trophy unveiled