Why did Naseem Shah not play for Rawalpindiz against Islamabad United?

Fast bowler Naseem Shah did not play in Rawalpindiz twin-city derby against Islamabad United. Naseem, who picked up an injury during the side’s previous game against Karachi Kings, went for MRI scans a day earlier. Reportedly, he was advised by the doctors to rest before returning to action.

Injury concern and on-field incident

The extent of his injury remains uncertain, which is why it is difficult to know when the pacer can return to his side. Naseem left the field during Rawalpindiz’s games against Karachi after feeling discomfort in his back. He was only three balls into his third over when he ceased bowling and team physio came out following which he was escorted out. Cole McConchie, then, completed the over for him.

How will it impact Rawalpindiz?

Against Karachi, Jalat Khan replaced Naseem Shah. Jalat got Sameer Minhas’ valuable wicket at the cost of 38 runs in four overs.

Earlier in the previous over, Naseem dismissed Mohammad Waseem after the batter hit him for a couple of sixes. This was the fast bowler’s first wicket of the season. Naseem’s absence would add to Rawalpindiz already abundant worries. Three games in and they have yet to win a game. The only reason Rawalpindiz aren’t at the bottom of the table is that Hyderabad Kingsmen have had a marginally worse campaign.

Rawalpindiz also lost one of their fast bowling picks, Zaman Khan, to injury ahead of the competition.

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