Pakistan suffered another setback on Friday as the second pacer was ruled out of the entire Asia Cup 2022 tournament.
Just days after Pakistan lost their star pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi to a knee injury, pacer Mohammad Wasim Jr.
On Wednesday, Pakistan were ruled out of the tournament due to a side strain while bowling in the practice session. Pakistan has already announced a replacement player for the injured Wasim.
“The findings were discussed with the PCB Medical Advisory Committee, while an independent review by an expert physiotherapist was also sought.
The medical team will closely monitor Wasim's rehabilitation and re-evaluate his return to competitive cricket ahead of England's tour of Pakistan.
“Meanwhile, Hasan Ali has been named as Wasim's replacement, subject to the approval of the Event Technical Committee. As soon as ETC approves Hasan as a replacement player, the bowler will leave for the UAE."
🚨 Another Pakistan fast bowler ruled out with an injury.
— ICC (@ICC) August 27, 2022
Veteran pacer named as replacement ⬇️https://t.co/bg9XEjDSB2
After this unfortunate development, the selectors have called in Hasan Ali in place of Wasim.
It should be noted that Ali's status in the tournament is still subject to the review and approval of the Event Technical Committee.
While fans lament Wasim's loss to his bowling order, it seems his injury has come as a blessing in disguise for Ali, who was dropped from the first team after the selectors deemed his performance inconsistent .
However, it seems that he has been given a chance to redeem himself and come back to the good qualities of the selectors.
His future in the team and upcoming tournaments will depend on his performance in the upcoming Asia Cup.