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Pakistan has received a much-needed lift in fitness, as it appears that Khurram Shahzad has escaped another major injury.
The majority of the most recent Test series’ last day saw the Pakistan quick off the pitch as Bangladesh easily defeated Pakistan by six wickets in Rawalpindi, 2-0.
The series’ second-highest wicket-taker, Shahzad, 24, had earlier played a key role in starting Bangladesh’s first-inning collapse, which saw them reduced to 26 for 6. In the first innings, he bowled 6 for 90, his career-best numbers; but, in the second, he was much less successful, collecting 1 for 40 in the seven overs he faced.
After the game, he was sent for scans because of what was described as left side body soreness and stiffness. Doctors have urged him to rest for a little while after preliminary findings ruled out a fracture. Shahzad will therefore be able to play in the Test series against England the following month based on his current diagnosis.
Given his previous history of injuries, Shahzad was quite concerned about the side ache. He had an injury on his Perth debut in December of last year, which subsequently revealed to be a stress fracture of the ribs, keeping him out for several months. Having not bowled a ball in first-class cricket, he only made a comeback to the field for the two Test matches against Bangladesh last month.
As a result, he will miss the Champions One-Day Cup, which is scheduled to begin next week, in an effort to get him fully well before Pakistan plays its first Test against England in Multan on October 7. Next week, a further MRI scan will be performed to track his improvement.
Given their previous record, Pakistan will be reluctant to lose another fast bowler to injury.