Usman Khan Takes the Field as a Concussion Replacement for Imam-ul-Haq in Third ODI Against New Zealand
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Synopsis
In an unexpected turn of events during the third ODI against New Zealand, Usman Khan stepped in as a concussion substitute for Imam-ul-Haq, who was injured after being struck on the jaw. The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed this decision, adhering to ICC regulations regarding player safety.
Key Takeaways
- Usman Khan replaced Imam-ul-Haq as a concussion substitute.
- Imam was injured after being hit on the jaw during the game.
- ICC rules allow for like-for-like substitutes in case of concussions.
- This is the second consecutive ODI for Pakistan with a concussion incident.
- Usman Khan's prior performance was notable, but he struggled in this match.
Mount Maunganui, April 5 (NationPress) Pakistan’s dynamic batsman Usman Khan was permitted to enter the field and bat, despite not being part of the initial playing XI for the third ODI against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.
This decision followed a serious injury sustained by opener Imam-ul-Haq early in Pakistan’s innings.
Imam, who had come back into the team replacing Usman for this match, was struck on the jaw by the ball while attempting a single. The impact was significant enough to require immediate medical assistance, leading to the southpaw being stretchered off the field. After a medical evaluation, the team management announced that Imam had suffered a concussion and would be unable to continue in the game.
According to ICC regulations, a team is permitted to introduce a like-for-like concussion replacement in such cases. Pakistan selected Usman Khan as Imam’s substitute - a decision fully compliant with the regulations.
“Usman Khan has been designated as the concussion substitute for Imam-ul-Haq, who was injured after being hit on the jaw by the ball,” the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed in a social media update.
Usman, who had made an impression with a brief performance in the series opener before missing the second game due to a hamstring issue, returned to the crease but could not make a substantial impact. He was dismissed for only 12 runs by New Zealand's pacer Mohammad Abbas.
This incident marks the second consecutive ODI in which a Pakistani player has experienced a concussion. In the previous match, Naseem Shah replaced Haris Rauf, who had been struck on the helmet while batting.
