Pakistan’s task of leveling the ongoing ODI series against New Zealand has suffered a setback as top-order batter Usman Khan will miss the second ODI after sustaining a hamstring injury during the series opener in Napier.
The 29-year-old picked up the injury while fielding in the first match, and subsequent scans confirmed a low-grade tear. As a result, he has been ruled out of the second fixture of the three-match series, set to take place in Hamilton on Wednesday.
He was a late addition to Pakistan’s ODI squad, earning a call-up after the conclusion of the T20I series. Making his ODI debut in Napier, he made an impressive start, scoring 39 runs off 33 balls before Pakistan succumbed to a 73-run defeat.
Usman Khan’s absence also disrupts Pakistan’s opening combination. Imam-ul-Haq, Pakistan’s other established opening batter, is also dealing with an ailment, and his participation in the second game is uncertain as well. If the duo misses out, Babar Azam will very likely have to step up and partner Abdullah Shafique at the top of the batting order. Babar took on the role during the Champions Trophy but struggled to make an impact, meaning Pakistan may face similar issues in the second ODI.
Whatever the combination, Pakistan will need a quick solution as it aims to level the series.
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