WEBDESK: Pakistan’s opening batsman Imam Ul Haq was forced to retire hurt after being struck on the jaw while batting in the final One Day International (ODI) between Pakistan and New Zealand, on Sunday. The incident occurred during Pakistan’s run chase, with the team targeting a total of 265 runs set by New Zealand at Bay Oval.
Imam Ul Haq had looked solid at the crease when he was hit on the jaw by a Lockie Ferguson throw while trying to take a run. The Pakistan team medical staff immediately rushed to his aid. However, Imam Ul Haq was taken off the field for further treatment after failing the concussion test.
Following the injury, Usman Khan was brought in as a concussion substitute for Imam Ul Haq, as per cricket’s concussion replacement policy.
Initially, Imam Ul Haq received medical attention at the ground’s emergency centre and was later taken to the hospital for further treatment, the team spokesperson said. He will undergo a detailed check-up at the hospital, he added.
Earlier, Pakistan won the toss and put New Zealand to bat first in the rain-affected match. The Kiwis already have a 2-0 lead in the three-match series and will be looking to secure a whitewash victory over the visitor in today’s match.
Pakistan, on the other hand, will try to avoid a clean sweep by securing their first victory in the country since February 2011.
According to New Zealand Cricket (NZC), their in-form middle-order batter Mark Chapman has been ruled out for today’s match.
The left-handed batter, who also missed the second ODI due to a hamstring injury, was assessed during the home side’s training session for the upcoming fixture which revealed that he had not recovered sufficiently.
As a result, Tim Seifert, who was called in as Chapman’s replacement for the second ODI in Hamilton, will stay with the squad for the upcoming fixture.
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