Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan is likely to be out of the remainder of the New Zealand series after suffering a hamstring injury during the third T20I.
The injury, sustained while Rizwan was batting, prompted him to retire hurt, followed by a medical assessment that recommended against further participation in the series.
The team doctor emphasized the importance of rest and rehabilitation for Rizwan to ensure a complete recovery.
The Pakistani side, especially considering his recent batting form and his role as a senior player in the team, will keenly feel Rizwan’s absence.
He was instrumental in Pakistan’s victory in the second T20I, where he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s emphatic victory, displaying his prowess with both bat and gloves.
Notably, Rizwan achieved a significant milestone in the series, becoming the fastest batter to reach 3000 T20I runs in just 79 innings, surpassing illustrious names like Virat Kohli and his own teammate Babar Azam.
Amidst Rizwan’s injury setback, there are reports suggesting that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating appointing him as the vice-captain of the national team.
This move reflects the growing stature of Mohammad Rizwan in Pakistani cricket, having previously served as the vice-captain of the T20 team.
Prior to him, wicketkeeper Azam Khan was also ruled out of the series with a calf injury. Azam was replaced by Haseebullah Khan in the squad.
Haseebullah will join the Pakistan side today and will be available for selection in the remaining two T20Is scheduled to be played in Lahore on Thursday and Saturday, respectively.
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