Pakistan cricket team faces a significant challenge ahead of their upcoming match against Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2023 as Salman Ali Agha’s participation is doubtful due to an injury he sustained during the Pakistan-India clash.
Agha was struck in the face when he top-edged a sweep off Jadeja during the Super 4 match of the Asia Cup 2023. Post-match, he was taken to the hospital where his nose was treated. Despite his condition improving, Agha’s face remains swollen, casting doubt on his ability to participate in the forthcoming match against Sri Lanka.
In light of these developments, Saud Shakeel is likely to replace Agha in the playing XI. Shakeel’s potential inclusion could provide a fresh dynamic to the team, even as they grapple with the absence of Agha’s batting prowess.
Further increasing issues for Pakistan are concerns over the fitness of Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah.
Both players picked up injuries during the match against India, leading to Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan being called up as backups.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has clarified that this move is a precautionary measure, aimed at ensuring player fitness and well-being ahead of next month’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Rauf and Shah will continue to be monitored by the team’s medical panel, with replacements only being requested if either player is ruled out for the next seven days.
Despite these setbacks, Pakistan remains committed to its Asia Cup campaign. The team management and players are undoubtedly working hard to adapt to these challenges and ensure a strong performance in their upcoming matches.