Pakistan and Bangladesh are currently playing match No. 7 of the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 in Lahore. Shakib Al Hasan won the toss and opted to bat first. Naseem Shah picked up the big wicket of Mehidy Hasan Miraz, who came into the match after scoring a century against Afghanistan off the first ball.
However, something very unfortunate happened on the second ball of the seventh over, bowled by Shaheen Afridi. Naseem tried to stop a boundary at fine leg by sliding to his left. His body was in contact with the boundary rope when he stopped the ball, and that is why a boundary was given to Bangladesh. However, what was more concerning for Pakistan fans was that Naseem was seen lying on the floor motionless for a while. The physio rushed out and checked on the talented pacer.
The 20-year-old was eventually led off the field. Wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Haris came out as a substitute fielder. Haris Rauf replaced Naseem from the other end.
Naseem Shah returns to bowl against Bangladesh
The extent of Naseem‘s injury was monitored after he was taken off the field. Pakistan fans would have been keeping their fingers crossed as they have a huge match coming up against arch-rivals India on Sunday, September10. Much to their delight, the fast-bowling sensation returned to bowl the 18th over in the innings.
Bangladesh lost their first four wickets for just 47 runs. Litton Das, who recovered from illness and played this encounter, was dismissed for 16 by Shaheen, while Mohammad Naim and Towhid Hridoy were sent back to the hut by Rauf. The onus is now on Bangladesh’s most experienced Shakib Al Hasan and Mushfiqur Rahim duo to get their team to a fighting total. The pitch at the Gaddafi Stadium has been good for batting, and Pakistan will be confident of chasing down whatever target they are set.