Pakistan received a vital fitness boost with news that fast bowler Khurram Shahzad appears to have avoided another major injury. Shahzad had left the field for most of the final day during Pakistan's recent Test series against Bangladesh, where they suffered a 2-0 defeat in Rawalpindi.
The 24-year-old, who finished as the second-highest wicket-taker in the series, played a key role in Bangladesh’s first-innings collapse, where they were reduced to 26 for 6. Shahzad claimed career-best figures of 6 for 90 in that innings. However, he was less effective in Bangladesh’s second innings, taking 1 for 40 from seven overs. Following the game, he was sent for scans due to discomfort on the left side of his body, but ESPNcricinfo reports that no fracture was found, and doctors have recommended only a short period of rest. This suggests Shahzad will be available for Pakistan’s Test series against England next month.
Shahzad's side strain was particularly concerning given his injury history. In December, during his debut in Perth, he suffered a rib stress fracture that sidelined him for several months. He only made his return to competitive cricket in the recent two-Test series against Bangladesh, having not bowled a single ball in first-class cricket since his injury.
As a precaution, Shahzad will sit out the Champions One-Day Cup next week, as Pakistan focuses on ensuring he regains full fitness ahead of the first Test against England on October 7 in Multan. Another MRI scan is scheduled for next week to track his recovery progress.
Pakistan has been plagued by injuries to fast bowlers recently. Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Mohammad Hasnain, Hasan Ali, and Ihsanullah have all faced long-term absences, placing significant pressure on the team. The Pakistan Cricket Board’s medical department has been under intense scrutiny, especially after a scathing internal review criticised the handling of Ihsanullah’s injury. This review also led to the resignation of the PCB’s chief medical officer, Dr. Sohail Saleem.