Test pacer Mir Hamza suffered an elbow injury while fielding during the President’s Trophy Grade One Cricket Tournament, adding to growing concerns about the playing conditions at the HPC Oval Ground.
The 32-year-old fast bowler was representing Ghani Glass in their match against Eshaal Associates when the incident occurred on Day 2. While diving to take a catch in the outfield, Hamza landed awkwardly, injuring his left elbow and immediately leaving the field in visible pain. Former Test wicketkeeper Kamran Akmal, now Ghani Glass’ coach, called the injury a tragic consequence of inadequate field conditions.
“There’s no grass on the outfield, and players are diving on bare dirt. Injuries like this are bound to happen,” Akmal lamented.
Mir Hamza’s injury comes just days after former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Hafeez, currently coaching Sui Southern Gas, publicly criticized the arrangements for the President’s Cup matches at the HPC Oval Ground. Hafeez had urged the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to prioritize player safety and improve the facilities at the venue.
Despite being a crucial platform for domestic players, the tournament’s substandard infrastructure has repeatedly been a point of contention. Mir Hamza’s injury now amplifies calls for immediate action to ensure better conditions for players.
Mir Hamza’s injury is particularly concerning for Karachi Kings, who picked him in the ‘Silver’ category during the PSL 2025 Draft. The franchise will be closely monitoring his recovery timeline as they prepare for the tournament. Hamza, a seasoned campaigner, was expected to be a key addition to the Kings’ bowling lineup.