Setback For Pakistan; Usman Khan Ruled Out Of 2nd ODI vs New Zealand Due To Injury

Usman Khan set to miss 2nd ODI vs NZ [Source: @CallMeSheri1/X]

In a massive setback for Pakistan, swashbuckling batter Usman Khan has been ruled out of the second ODI against New Zealand due to an injury. Usman looked sublime in the first ODI, playing a superb cameo at the top order. 

Usman Khan Sidelined From 2nd ODI vs NZ

Explosive Pakistan batter Usman Khan sustained a hamstring injury while fielding in the first ODI against New Zealand at McLean Park in Napier. 

He went for an MRI scan, which revealed a low-grade tear, ruling him out of the second ODI of the series at Seddon Park in Hamilton. 

Usman's injury is a huge setback for Pakistan, as he looked flamboyant in the first ODI. Opening the batting with Abdullah Shafique, Usman struck four boundaries and two sixes for his blazing cameo. 

As he is all set to miss the next game, Imam-ul-Haq seems the frontrunner to replace him in Pakistan's playing XI. 

Pakistan Suffer A Crushing Defeat In 1st ODI vs NZ

Led by Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan had a horrible start to the ODI series against New Zealand. They incurred a 73-run defeat despite heroic half centuries from Babar Azam and Agha Salman. 

Batting first, New Zealand posted 344 runs, riding on a sensational hundred from Mark Chapman. Although Babar and Salman kept Pakistan alive in the contest, their dismissals opened the floodgates for the visitors, with the hosts claiming a comfortable win and taking a crucial 1-0 lead in the series. 

---

ALSO READ

Usman Khan Included; Shaheen Afridi Dropped? Pakistan's Strongest XI For 3rd T20I vs NZ

---