Major blow to Pakistan as star player ruled out of U19 World Cup ahead of crucial clash vs India

Pakistan wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Shayan has been ruled out from the remainder of the U19 World Cup right ahead of the side's clash against arch-rivals India. The two are scheduled to face-off on February 1 in what will be the final match of the Super 6 stage. The 18-year-old had been in action during Pakistan's previous game against New Zealand, but was ruled out on Friday after being hit hard on the nose while wicketkeeping in a scenario-based practice game.

Shayan was soon taken to the hospital where scans revealed a fracture. Thus, he was ruled out from the tournament and the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is expected to soon name his replacement.

ALSO READ: 'Past has got no meaning...': Sourav Ganguly's honest verdict on India's T20 World Cup chances

"Pakistan U19 wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Shayan has been ruled out of the ICC U19 Men's Cricket World Cup after being struck on the nose by a ball while wicketkeeping to a fast bowler during a scenario-based practice match," PCB said in a statement.

"He was taken to hospital, where X-rays confirmed a fracture. A replacement for Mohammad Shayan will be named in due course," the statement further read.

Pakistan do have back-up

Pakistan do have opener Hamza Zahoor as their designated wicketkeeper-batter so they will not be requiring a quick replacement for Shayan ahead of the upcoming clash. The Men in Green currently stand third with four points in the second group of the Super 6 stage. England are at the top with eight points while India sit second with six points.

India and Pakistan in hunt for a place in the semis

With the likes of Australia, Afghanistan and England already through to the semi-finals, the clash between India and Pakistan will decide the final team that will move into the last 4. The Men in Blue have a net run-rate of +3.337 which is far superior to their arch-rivals, who are at +1.484. They would need to win by a massive margin in order to secure a place in the semis.

However, that will be a mountain task for Farhan Yousaf & Co. as India are unbeaten in the tournament and have won all the six matches that they have played so far. They will be aiming to continue their winning streak in the final match of the Super 6.