Shan Masood has been ruled out of Pakistan’s second Test against the West Indies in Port of Spain because of a finger injury sustained during the opening Test in Trinidad. The Pakistan Test batter injured the index finger of his left hand after being struck by a delivery from Jayden Seales, and his availability for the upcoming England series will depend on his recovery.
Shan Masood ruled out of second West Indies Test
Masood suffered the injury while batting in Pakistan’s first innings of the first Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy. Pakistan went on to lose the match by 90 runs, leaving the visitors facing a selection challenge ahead of the second Test at Queen’s Park Oval.
Following a scan and clinical assessment, Masood has started treatment under the Pakistan team’s medical panel. The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed that he will remain with the squad despite being unavailable for the second Test.
“Pakistan Test batter Shan Masood has been ruled out of the second Test against the West Indies after sustaining an injury to the index finger of his left hand during the first Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad.”
The PCB said Masood is currently undergoing treatment after medical assessment of the injury.
Masood’s England series availability remains uncertain
Masood’s injury could also affect Pakistan’s next Test assignment. The PCB said his availability for the first Test against England in Leeds, beginning on August 19, will be determined by his recovery and clinical progress.
Pakistan will therefore have to monitor Masood’s condition over the coming weeks before deciding whether he is fit enough to take part in the England series.
Pakistan face batting selection dilemma
Masood’s absence adds to the pressure on Pakistan’s batting line-up after the team struggled for runs during the first Test. The selectors now have to determine who will replace him for the second match.
Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel are among the players in contention. Both were added to Pakistan’s squad after Abdullah Fazal was ruled out of the series because of a back injury.
Uncapped batter Awais Zafar is another option and could be considered for a Test debut against the West Indies.
Pakistan prepare for second Test in Port of Spain
The second Test is scheduled to begin on Sunday at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain. Pakistan will enter the match after losing the opening Test by 90 runs and will have to make at least one change to their batting line-up because of Masood’s injury.
With Masood remaining with the team while receiving treatment, Pakistan’s immediate focus will be on finding a suitable replacement and improving their batting performance in the second Test.
Source: Pakistan Cricket Board
