Port of Spain, Trinidad – Web Desk: Pakistan’s emerging Test opener Abdullah Shafique has been ruled out of the upcoming Test series against West Indies and England after suffering a lower back injury during a training session at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad on Thursday .
Injury Details
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that an MRI scan and medical evaluation advised Shafique to undergo rehabilitation. The 23-year-old sustained the injury on the eve of the first Test against West Indies .
A Promising Start
Abdullah made his Test debut against Bangladesh in May and impressed with half-centuries in both innings. He also remained unbeaten in both innings of the warm-up match against West Indies Select XI, scoring 50 and 48 .
Replacement Options
His absence has opened the door for middle-order batter Owais Zafar to make his Test debut, while Imam-ul-Haq is expected to return to the opening slot alongside captain Babar Azam .
Captain Babar Azam expressed his wishes for Abdullah’s speedy recovery, calling him “a talented and confident young player whose absence is a big loss for Pakistan.”
