Pakistan could be without Naseem Shah in the second ODI against Australia with the fast bowler’s status remaining uncertain after suffering cramps in the first game.
While bowling his 8th over Naseem Shah appeared to be in significant discomfort, clutching his left calf. The team physio quickly attended to him, but Naseem ultimately left the field unassisted. Mohammad Hasnain completed the over in which Australia completed its two-wicket win.
Sources report that Naseem Shah is still experiencing some pain but is showing signs of recovery. With several days before the second ODI, there’s hope he’ll be fit for the upcoming clash. Pakistan’s team has left Adelaide with the next game set for November 8.
Naseem’s participation in the match will be a huge boost for Pakistan as he was probably the team’s most impactful player in the first match with both the bat and the ball.
Batting at No. 9, Naseem counterattacked with a 39-ball 40, including four sixes and a four, helping Pakistan recover from a precarious 148-7. His explosive knock propelled Pakistan past the 200-run mark after the team was on the verge of being bowled out for a low score.
Naseem Shah also opened the bowling in the second over of Australia’s chase but struggled initially, conceding 14 runs as he worked to regain his rhythm but claimed the wicket of Jake Fraser-McGurk in his second over to briefly halt Australia’s momentum.
Naseem’s injury is a concern for Pakistan, especially as they face a packed schedule. Following the three-match ODI series, they’ll meet Australia again in a three-match T20I series before heading to Zimbabwe for an ODI and T20I series.
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