Pakistan’s fast-bowling sensation Ihsanullah has embarked on a journey to the United Kingdom for specialized medical treatment of a persistent elbow injury. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has assumed full responsibility for Ihsanullah’s treatment, which has been a subject of controversy.
Ihsanullah’s elbow injury dates back to April 2023, following a white-ball series against New Zealand. Initially, the PCB downplayed the severity of the injury, and the subsequent treatment, involving gym and weight work, may have aggravated the condition.
For over a year, there was a lack of official updates on Ihsanullah’s progress. However, the case gained media attention when Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen accused the PCB of neglecting the player’s treatment. Tareen claimed that the franchise had covered a significant portion of Ihsanullah’s expenses and that he required further surgery.
PCB’s chief medical officer, Dr. Sohail Saleem, defended the board’s handling of the case, but admitted to a delay in proper diagnosis. The PCB has now secured an appointment with renowned UK-based orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Adam Watts, in collaboration with Multan Sultans.
Ihsanullah’s case has highlighted concerns about the PCB’s medical record, particularly in managing fast bowlers’ injuries. Several players and staff have expressed a lack of trust in Dr. Saleem, a situation that may intensify following Ihsanullah’s treatment.
In recent years, Pakistan has witnessed a string of lengthy injury layoffs among its fast bowlers. Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, and Khurram Shahzad have all faced significant setbacks. The PCB’s handling of these injuries has raised questions about its ability to effectively manage and rehabilitate its players.
