Massive Blow For Pakistan As Superstar Batter Ruled Out Of 2nd Test Against West Indies

Pakistan have been dealt a big setback ahead of the second Test against West Indies, as experienced batter Shan Masood has been ruled out after fracturing his left index finger during the first Test in Trinidad.

Masood picked up the injury in Pakistan’s first innings at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Tarouba. He was struck on the finger by a rising delivery from West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales. Pakistan eventually lost the opening Test by 90 runs.

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The injury means Masood will miss Pakistan’s second World Test Championship (WTC) match at Queen’s Park Oval. His place in the squad for the upcoming Test series against England, which begins on August 19 in Leeds, is also in doubt.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the news in an official statement.

According to the PCB, scans and medical assessments showed that Masood had suffered a fracture to the index finger of his left hand. The team’s medical staff is currently treating him and will continue to stay with the squad. The board added that a decision on his availability for the first Test against England will be made based on how well he recovers over the coming weeks.

Masood’s absence is another concern for Pakistan after their batting struggled in the opening Test. The team management now has to decide who will replace him in the playing XI.

Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel are among the leading options. Both players were added to the squad after Abdullah Fazal was ruled out of the first Test because of a lower back injury. Uncapped right-handed batter Awais Zafar is also in contention and could be handed his Test debut.

Pakistan are currently at the bottom of the World Test Championship standings in ninth place, while West Indies sit one spot above them in eighth.