by: Atika Mehboob TN Sport Pakistan:
In a thrilling turn of events on Friday in Chennai, South Africa secured a one-wicket victory against Pakistan, intensifying Pakistan’s challenges in the 2023 World Cup.
During the intense showdown, Pakistani all-rounder Shadab Khan was struck in the head while attempting to field a ball. Although he briefly exited the field for medical evaluation, he rejoined the match shortly after, only to later be substituted for Usama Mir due to concussion concerns.
Umar Gul, the former Pakistani cricketer, expressed doubts regarding Shadab’s injury when speaking on a local sports channel.
“It’s unclear the extent of Shadab’s injury. However, when you momentarily exit a crucial match citing a concussion and then are seen interacting with others and cheering from the sidelines, it raises eyebrows. People will naturally question such actions,” Gul remarked.
He further elaborated, “It was a pivotal match, and as an experienced player, Shadab should have remained on the field. History has seen players soldiering on despite severe injuries, showing commitment to their team. I find it hard to believe that Shadab was seriously injured.”
However, Shadab’s replacement, Usama Mir, proved his worth, claiming two vital wickets, including the key dismissal of Aiden Markram, who looked poised to steer South Africa to triumph.
Pakistan is slated to face Bangladesh in their upcoming World Cup match in Kolkata this Tuesday.
