Karachi( The COW News Digital) Pakistan’s national cricket team faces a wave of injury concerns just weeks ahead of their crucial T20I series against Bangladesh, raising serious questions about squad readiness and player availability.
According to sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), star all-rounder Shadab Khan is struggling with a shoulder injury that may sideline him for up to three months. Medical experts have reportedly advised him to undergo surgery, which is likely to take place in England in the coming weeks.
Shadab’s absence would be a major blow for Pakistan, particularly given his dual value as a key middle-order batter and frontline spinner in the T20 format. “Doctors have suggested immediate surgery. If it proceeds, Shadab will miss the Bangladesh tour and possibly other upcoming series,” a PCB source confirmed.
In addition to Shadab, fast bowlers Naseem Shah and Mohammad Wasim Jr. are also battling fitness concerns. Both have not yet regained full match fitness, and their availability for the tour remains doubtful. The uncertainty surrounding these three core players could significantly impact Pakistan’s performance.
To cover the potential gaps, selectors are reportedly considering Salmam Mirza, a left-arm fast bowler from Lahore Qalandars, and Sufiyan Muqeem, a promising left-arm spinner, for inclusion in the squad. Both have shown strong domestic performances and could offer much-needed depth.
The national training camp for the Bangladesh tour is scheduled to begin on July 8 at the National Stadium Karachi, giving the team less than two weeks to finalize preparations and assess player fitness.
Pakistan will depart for Bangladesh on July 16, with the three-match T20I series kicking off on July 20. The short series is part of Pakistan’s preparation phase ahead of the upcoming ICC events later in the year.
The PCB is expected to announce the final squad in the coming days, pending medical reports and fitness assessments.
