Irfan retires hurt against UAE

NAPIER: Pakistani fast bowler Mohammad Irfan retired hurt, after bowling just three overs during Wednesday’s World Cup win against UAE.

Irfan complained of a hip injury and left the field after his spell of three overs of which one was maiden, giving away two runs only.

On the other hand, fast bowler Sohail Khan has also complained of a foot injury and it will have to be seen whether he will also be fit to play in the next match or not.

During his post-match news conference Pakistan's Coach Waqar Younis erased doubts over the fitness of seamer Mohammad Irfan.

"I don´t think it´s a major concern," said Waqar after the match. "He has an issue with his gluteus and it´s an old problem.

"Irfan will be fine in the next couple of days and will play against South Africa."

Irfan, the tallest ever cricketer at 7 feet, one inch, managed to bowl just three overs and hurt his hip in the field on Wednesday.

The 32-year-old paceman has taken six wickets in the tournament with a best of 4-30 against Zimbabwe in Brisbane on Sunday.

He will be key in Pakistan´s crunch game against South Africa in Auckland on Saturday.