Pakistan’s Rizwan and Niazi Ruled Out of T20I Series Against New Zealand
Pakistan’s T20I Series Against New Zealand Hit by Injuries to Rizwan and Niazi
Pakistan’s T20I series against New Zealand has been dealt a significant blow with the news that Mohammad Rizwan and Irfan Khan Niazi have been ruled out due to injuries. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the news in a statement, stating that radiology reports had revealed the extent of their injuries.
Rizwan, Pakistan’s wicketkeeper-batter, is believed to have suffered a hamstring injury while batting in the third T20I. He received extensive on-field attention before retiring hurt. The PCB has downplayed the severity of his injury, indicating that he is expected to be sidelined for no more than a week to ten days. However, the injury does not pose any immediate threat to his availability for future tours.
Niazi, on the other hand, is also believed to have sustained a hamstring niggle, despite showing no signs of discomfort during the third T20I. The PCB has decided to withdraw him from the series as a precautionary measure.
The absence of Rizwan and Niazi is a major setback for Pakistan, especially with the series on the line in Lahore. New Zealand bounced back from a heavy defeat in the second T20I with a dominant performance in Pindi, leveling the series. The final two games will be played in Lahore, where Pakistan will be looking to secure a series victory.
In Rizwan’s absence, Pakistan has several wicketkeeping options. Haseebullah, who made his international debut in a T20 against New Zealand earlier this year, has been called up as cover. Usman Khan, who kept wicket for the Multan Sultans in the PSL earlier this year, is another potential option.
The injuries to Rizwan and Niazi come at an inopportune time for Pakistan, who are looking to build momentum ahead of the T20 World Cup later this year. The team will be hoping that the duo can recover quickly and be available for selection in the near future.
