Pak World Cup hopes get big boost as Shadab declared fit

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan World Cup hopes get a big boost as wrist spinner Shadab Khan has been declared fit to join the touring squad in England following latest blood tests conducted on the player.

The all-rounder was diagnosed with hepatitis C, a day ahead of team’s departure for England for five-match one-day series and for World Cup. An important member of Pakistan World Cup armory, Shadab then was sent for treatment in England where he was advised complete rest for two weeks.

A source close to Shadab had told The News last week that he had already attained fitness and it was just matter of time before he would be seen joining the team in England.On Tuesday Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) hand-out confirmed his leaving for England on May 16. “Shadab has been declared fit to join the team in England.

He now leaves on May 16 to be part of the World Cup team after completing required procedures.”It has been confirmed that Shadab tests conducted on Tuesday found no virus of any kind. “He is as fit and his blood tests are as clear as any other athlete’s should have been. It is a good news for Pakistan cricket and team that is gunning for title in England with the opening match against West Indies at Bristol on May 31.”

The leg-spinner will consult Dr Patrick Kennedy on May 17, before joining the team in Bristol on May 20.However, Shadab’s appearances in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 warm-up matches, scheduled for May 24 and 26 against Afghanistan and Bangladesh respectively, are subject to his match fitness and the team managements decision.

Meanwhile Shadab Khan said: “I am delighted to know that the blood tests are negative and I can now return to competitive cricket. I was always very confident that I would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup.”