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In a significant setback for the Pakistan cricket team, spinner Noman Ali has been ruled out of the ongoing Test series against Australia due to acute appendicitis. The news was confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in an official statement following Noman’s complaint of “sudden and severe” abdominal pain.
Scans promptly confirmed the diagnosis, leading to Noman undergoing a laparoscopic appendectomy. The surgery, conducted in the morning, was deemed successful. The PCB stated that the player is stable and recovering well, with an expected discharge from the hospital in the afternoon.
Abrar Ahmed’s replacement woes
Noman, initially included in the squad as a backup spinner to Abrar Ahmed, now finds himself out of contention. Abrar’s injury in a tour game ruled him out of the opening Test, and he is unlikely to participate in the remainder of the series. The PCB had previously flown in Sajid Khan as cover, but he arrived too late to feature in the Perth Test.
Replacement announced for Noman Ali
As the second Test looms, scheduled to commence on December 26, the PCB has announced a replacement for Noman Ali. Left-arm spinner Mohammad Nawaz, already part of the 17-member T20I squad against New Zealand, has been chosen to fill the void. Nawaz, known for his all-round skills, has claimed 16 wickets in six Tests for Pakistan.
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Wahab Riaz eyes logistical challenges
Addressing the challenges posed by the sudden requirement for a replacement, Wahab Riaz, chief selector of the men’s cricket team, highlighted logistical issues, including visa complications for a new player. Despite these challenges, Nawaz, considered the best available choice due to his left-arm spin, will depart for Australia at the earliest opportunity.
“It is really unfortunate that Noman Ali is not available for the Test matches. Due to logistical challenges, including visa issues for any new player, and considering the requirement for a left-arm spinner, Nawaz was the best available choice for the side,” said Riaz as quoted by GeoNews.
