Usman Khan Ruled Out of Second ODI Against New Zealand

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s opening batter, Usman Khan, has been ruled out of the second ODI against New Zealand after sustaining a hamstring injury during the first match of the series. The 29-year-old suffered the injury while fielding in the first ODI at Mclean Park in Napier on Friday.

An MRI scan confirmed that Usman had suffered a low-grade tear, making him unavailable for the second ODI scheduled for April 2 at Seddon Park in Hamilton, according to a statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

The injury comes as Pakistan faces New Zealand in a three-match ODI series, with the Kiwis currently leading 1-0. In the first ODI, Pakistan had set a challenging target of 345 runs, and Usman Khan, along with debutant Abdullah Shafique, had given Pakistan a solid start with an 83-run opening partnership. Usman was dismissed for 39 runs in the 13th over by Nathan Smith.

Read more: Pakistan’s registered voters reach 133.4 million

Pakistan ultimately lost the match by 73 runs, as they were bowled out for 271 runs in 44.1 overs. The two teams will meet again on April 2 for the second match, followed by the third ODI on April 5 at the Bay Oval.