World Cup 2023 | Shadab Khan's Availability For NZ Game In Doubt 

image-loiry67hShadab Khan walks back after concussion at the 2023 World Cup (x.com)

Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan remains a doubtful starter for his side in their upcoming must-win World Cup 2023 match against New Zealand. The cricketer sustained a concussion earlier in the tournament during Pakistan’s close defeat against South Africa in Chennai.

While recent reports indicate that Abrar Ahmed might well replace Khan in their high-profile showdown, the senior all-rounder will be assessed by the PCB medical team as well as the team management in a bid to retain the cricketer for the playing XI.

Shadab Khan to be assessed | Report

According to recent reports, the Pakistan team management and the PCB medical team will be evaluating Shadab Khan’s fitness early in the morning, just hours prior to their much-awaited clash against New Zealand.

Earlier in the tournament, Khan hit his head on the ground during Pakistan’s match against South Africa, which subsequently ruled him out of the rest of the contest. Usama Mir was roped in as his concussion substitute, who struck a wicket in his first over of the innings to jolt South Africa in their run-chase. Despite his best efforts, the Proteas romped home to a one-wicket win to hand Pakistan their fourth successive defeat of the 2023 World Cup.

Shadab Khan was also excluded from Pakistan’s playing XI against Bangladesh at the Eden Gardens, where the ‘Men in Green’ snapped their unwanted losing streak with an emphatic seven-wicket triumph.

Regardless, Babar Azam and co. need to defeat New Zealand in their upcoming match if they are to entertain any chances of a top four finish. Moreover, Pakistan team will also hope for certain results to go their way from other fixtures to sustain their World Cup 2023 semi-final dream.