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This unfortunate injury necessitates a 10-day rest period, effectively sidelining him from the remainder of the T20I series against New Zealand.
Pakistan's wicketkeeper-batsman Azam Khan has been ruled out of the ongoing five-match T20 International series against New Zealand after suffering a setback in his bid to impress the selectors ahead of the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2024.
The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed the news on Saturday, stating that scans revealed a Grade One tear in Khan's right calf muscle. This unfortunate injury necessitates a 10-day rest period, effectively sidelining him from the remainder of the T20I series against New Zealand. Khan first experienced discomfort in his calf during a batting practice session leading up to the series opener at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium. The first match itself was washed out due to rain, further dampening Pakistan's spirits.
This injury is a significant blow to Khan's aspirations. Having only played eight T20 Internationals for Pakistan so far, with a modest record of 29 runs at an average of 4.83 and a strike rate of 90.62, the T20I series against New Zealand presented a crucial opportunity for him to showcase his talent and stake a claim for a spot in the T20 World Cup squad. With the likes of Mohammad Rizwan firmly established as Pakistan's first-choice wicketkeeper, Khan was aiming to impress as a hard-hitting middle-order batsman. His reputation as a big-hitter precedes him, having garnered attention in domestic tournaments for his explosive batting style.
Azam in race against time to be fit for Ireland and England T20Is!
However, this injury disrupts his momentum and puts his World Cup selection in jeopardy. The upcoming series against Ireland and England following the New Zealand tour were also viewed as vital chances for Khan to solidify his position. On a positive note, the Grade One tear is considered a minor injury, and the prescribed 10-day rest period suggests a relatively quick recovery. Khan will now head to the National Cricket Academy in Lahore, where he will undergo rehabilitation under the supervision of the PCB medical panel.
The focus for Khan will be on a swift recovery and regaining peak fitness in time for the crucial series against Ireland and England. These matches remain his best chance to convince the selectors of his value and secure a coveted spot in the T20 World Cup squad.