After a poor display against arch rivals India, the Pakistan Cricket team has been dealt with a major as their ace fast bowler Wahab Riaz has been ruled out of the entire Champions Trophy due to an injury to his ankle.
Wahab Riaz left off the field in the 46th over and could complete his over, also did not come to bat. In his 8.4 overs, Wahab Riaz gave away 87 runs at 10.03 runs per over. The last over of Indian innings was bowled by Imad Wasim.
India scored 319 runs in 48 overs for the loss of 3 wickets but the Pakistan team could not cope with the pressure and was bowled out for 164 in 33.4 overs giving India a massive 124 runs win via D/L. It is a big blow for the Pakistan team who next faces South Africa at Edgbaston, Birmingham. Their chances of winning the next match reduce without their frontline pacer.
Junaid Khan and Fahim Ashraf are the two available players with squad but Coach Mickey Athur said that Pakistan requires a replacement. Without Wahab Riaz, Pakistan will need a bowler who could fill the gap. Mohammad Aamir also injured and went off the field but came to bat.
“A scan has confirmed that Wahab Riaz suffered a deltoid ligament complex after an eversion injury mechanism while bowling,” a Pakistan Cricket Board release said.
“It will take minimum two weeks to recover from this injury … (meaning) Wahab will not be able to continue to play in remaining games of the Champions Trophy.”
Riaz has played a total of 79 One-day internationals with 102 wickets at an economy of 5.68 runs per over. He registered the most expensive spell in Champions Trophy history. Apart from 79 ODI’s, he has played 25 test matches and 27 T20 matches for the country.
Pakistan has to perform above their standard if they are to beat a strong South African side. South Africa defeated Sri Lanka by 96 runs. They are currently placed last in the points table. Wahab Riaz has been struggling for form. Their fielding against India was not up to the mark and they dropped catches which proved costly.
It is a matter of concern for Pakistan team who are struggling in ODI format. They are currently at 8th place in points table. Their ability to rotate strike and understanding situations has been lacking in their outfit. This Champions trophy squad lacks experience which showed in yesterday’s match.
