‘Just a cramp forced Naseem to leave ground’

ISLAMABAD: In a closely-contested opener against Australia at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground (MCG), Pakistan’s young pacer Naseem Shah was forced to withdraw after bowling 7.2 overs, sparking concerns. However, the team management quickly reassured the fans that it was only a minor cramp and nothing serious to worry about.

“Naseem has just a cramp that forced him to pull out of the match,” an official shared with ‘The News’ from Melbourne. “He is expected to be fit after a day’s rest and will resume training on Wednesday in Adelaide ahead of the second One-Dayer.”

Naseem wasn’t the only one feeling the heat -- Australian pacer Mitchell Starc also experienced similar issues. The high-intensity game, played in challenging conditions, tested both teams’ endurance.

“There is no practice or anything like that on Tuesday as the day is reserved for traveling to Adelaide. Hopefully, by the time we start training on Wednesday Naseem is expected to be fit and ready to train along with the other members of the team.”

Despite the loss, Pakistan’s spirited fight back lifted team’s morale. A source within the team said: “The players are upbeat and believe they have a good chance of turning the series around if they can put together solid performances. Beating Australia on their home turf after seven long years is within their reach.”

Pakistan have not defeated Australia in Australia in any format of the game for the last seven years. In fact the Greenshirts have lost 26 of the 27 matches they played against Australia in away series.

“The performance on Monday at Melbourne gave a fresh hope to the team that the victory is possible provided that every department gives its best in the remaining matches.” Pakistan’s team, led by Captain Mohammad Rizwan, displayed resilience that nearly snatched victory from Australia’s hands.

Rizwan commended the team, saying: “We were short of runs but our bowlers showed true fighting spirit. InshaAllah, we will raise our game in the remaining matches.” Facing years of defeats in Australia, Pakistan are hungry for redemption. As they head to Adelaide, the Greenshirts are more determined than ever to break the losing streak and create history.