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Pakistan team were left in shock and concern during the third ODI against New Zealand, held in a rain-hit match reduced to 42 overs per side. Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq suffered a serious blow on the face while attempting a single.
Scary injury to Imam-ul-Haq brings an unexpected halt to Pakistan’s innings
The incident occurred midway through Pakistan’s innings and left the 29-year-old in severe pain. As Imam tried to scamper for a run, a direct throw from the deep hit him flush on the helmet. Initially, the left-hander managed to take off his helmet, seemingly attempting to shake it off. But moments later, he collapsed to the ground, clutching his head in visible discomfort.
The ball, reportedly, had gotten lodged in his helmet grille briefly – signifying the force of the impact. Medical staff rushed onto the field as concerns grew over the severity of the blow. Despite appearing stable at first glance, Imam’s condition prompted the physiotherapist to call for a buggy ambulance. He was stretchered off the field as a precautionary measure, leaving his teammates and spectators deeply worried.
Here’s the video:
Imam ul Haq retired hurt#PAKvNZ #PakistanCricket #Cricket pic.twitter.com/ulUYUzrPtx
— Urooj Jawed🇵🇰 (@uroojjawed12) April 5, 2025
Also READ: NZ vs PAK: Daryl Mitchell sets a new ODI record for New Zealand
Pakistan struggle with the bat after early blow and New Zealand’s tight bowling
The match itself, already interrupted by weather, saw only 42 overs being allotted per side. New Zealand, batting first, posted a formidable total of 264/8, capitalizing on the limited-overs format. Their innings was powered by captain Michael Bracewell, who smashed a scintillating 59 off just 40 balls, laced with one boundary and six towering sixes. His assault provided the momentum needed after a cautious start. For Pakistan, Akif Javed emerged as the pick of the bowlers, scalping four crucial wickets in just eight overs and keeping the Kiwi batters in check for large periods of the innings.
Pakistan’s reply, however, began on a nervy note. The psychological blow of losing their key opener Imam to injury early in the innings was palpable. Though the team managed to survive the opening 20 overs without losing a wicket, their scoring rate was severely choked by New Zealand’s disciplined bowling. They could muster only 88 runs in that period, as the Kiwi bowlers, backed by sharp fielding, ensured no easy runs came Pakistan’s way.
