Pakistan's chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, has expressed concerns that Naseem Shah might be sidelined for a duration extending beyond just the ODI World Cup 2023.
Naseem was unfortunately declared unfit for the 2023 World Cup due to a significant shoulder injury, as revealed when Pakistan unveiled their squad for the tournament on Friday, 22 September.
The injury, which could potentially have long-term consequences for his cricketing career, was sustained during the Asia Cup 2023's Super Four encounter between India and Pakistan. Despite the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) medical team's vigilant supervision, the severity of Naseem's injury led to his exclusion from the forthcoming World Cup in India.
In light of Naseem's injury, the PCB has summoned seasoned fast bowler Hasan Ali as his replacement for the World Cup squad.
Addressing the media, as cited by Reuters, Inzamam stated that the medical report on Naseem suggests a prolonged absence from the game. The chief selector emphasised Naseem's significance, labelling him as the world's premier bowler at present, and acknowledged his absence as a significant setback for Pakistan in the World Cup.
"Naseem Shah is a pivotal bowler for us, but he's injured," the former captain and chief selector, Inzamam-ul-Haq, informed the press. "I refrained from making extensive changes to the squad. It predominantly mirrors the team we've observed over the past year."
"Regrettably, based on the feedback from our medical team, it appears Naseem might be out for a duration surpassing the World Cup. In my perspective, he was the world's foremost bowler at this juncture. His absence is a blow for Pakistan. We ardently hope for his swift recovery."
Inzamam speculated that the prolonged exposure of the players to the sweltering and humid conditions of Sri Lanka might have inadvertently contributed to Pakistan's injury woes.
"They participated in a test series there, followed by the Lankan Premier League, a series against Afghanistan, and also the Asia Cup fixtures. We're pondering if such an extended stint in those conditions might have precipitated injuries to our bowlers and some batsmen," Inzamam reflected.
"Pakistan held the top spot in the ODI rankings prior to the World Cup. Our faith in these players remains unwavering."'
MORE ON SPORTS TAK
Mark Waugh namedrops superstar Australian batter as 'real key' for ODI World Cup in Indian conditions
Three Wushu players from Arunachal Pradesh denied entry into China for Asian Games: Chef de Mission says 'Accreditation issue'
