Trouble for Pakistan team grows as key performer from first Test is ruled out from series

Australia convincingly defeated Pakistan in the first Test of their three-match series at Perth's Optus Stadium last week. The host’s secured a massive 360 runs victory.  This loss was very hefty as it raised a lot of question about team’s approach in Test match cricket. With the second Test match set to be in Melbourne on Tuesday, December 26, the trouble for Pakistan Cricket team grows even further as one of their key performers from the first Test is likely to miss the second Test.

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The 24-year-old, Khurram Shehzad who displayed noteworthy performance with match figures of 5/128 in the first Test, endured discomfort on his left side during the game. As per reports he Shahzad has been ruled out of the remainder of the series with a rib stress fracture and abdominal muscle tear.

Previously, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) issued a statement revealing that Shahzad underwent an MRI scan after the first Test. The report indicates a fracture in his left 10th rib for the right-arm seamer. Consequently, he will be unavailable for participation in the upcoming Tests in Melbourne and Sydney.

"PCB will now consult a specialist in Australia after which a final management protocol will be established for the player. He will then return to the NCA in Lahore where he will continue his injury management and rehabilitation," PCB's statement read.

Sajid Khan is expected get a game in Melbourne: Hafeez

Earlier, star Pakistan leg spinner Abrar Ahmed sustained a knee injury in Pakistan's warm-up match against Prime Minister's XI in Canberra before the first Test which ruled him out for first two Test matches. Now, Pakistan's head coach, Mohammad Hafeezhas mentioned that Noman Ali who was the replacement for Abrar has also suffered a finger injury.

As a result, to which off-spinner Sajid Khan, who was brought in as cover may feature in the Melbourne Test. Additionally, either Hasan Ali or Mohammad Wasim Jr is expected to replace the injured Khurram Shahzad in the playing XI for the second Test. The Men in Green are scheduled to participate in a two-day match against Victoria at the Junction Oval, starting on December 22.