Why Was Usman Khan Allowed To Bat Despite Being Dropped In PAK vs NZ 3rd ODI?

Usman Khan batted in 3rd ODI vs NZ  [Source: @CallMeSheri1/X]

In an interesting incident, Pakistan’s explosive batter Usman Khan was allowed to bat despite not being in the playing XI in the 3rd ODI against New Zealand at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. Notably, Usman, who struck a quick-fire cameo in the first game, was replaced by Imam-ul-Haq for the second ODI after sustaining a hamstring injury. 

Imam-ul-Haq Injury: Concussion Rule Explained

However, experienced Pakistani opener Imam-ul-Haq was ruled out of the third ODI against New Zealand after being hit on his jaw while completing a single. In fact, Imam was stretchered off the field, with Usman Khan replacing him as the concussion substitute. 

The rule states that if a player suffers a concussion and is unable to continue, a like-for-like substitute can take his place. In this case, with Imam ruled out, Usman was brought in to bat for Pakistan. 

It's worth mentioning that this is the second consecutive game a Pakistani player has sustained a concussion injury. In the previous match, Naseem Shah replaced Haris Rauf after the latter coped a serious blow to his helmet while batting. 

Usman Fails To Make An Impact

However, Usman Khan couldn't make an impact in the game, with Mohammad Abbas dismissing him for 12 runs. As of writing, Pakistan were 98 for two, with Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan batting on 42* and 1*, respectively. 

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