WI vs PAK: Shan Masood ruled of second Test due to left finger fracture

Pakistan have suffered a major blow ahead of the upcoming second Test against West Indies beginning on Sunday, August 2, as batter Shan Masood has been ruled out of the fixture in Port of Spain. Masood sustained a fracture in his left index finger during the first Test in Tarouba. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed his unavailability after a scan and clinical assessment by the team's medical panel.

Masood was injured during the first innings of the Test while facing Jayden Seales as he played a sublime innings of 109, laced with 12 fours. The former Pakistan skipper further didn’t take the field on Day 4 and came out to bat at No. 8 with Pakistan reeling at 53 for 6, chasing a target of 211 to win.

However, Masood could barely hold the bat with both hands, unable to place much pressure on his left hand. He was dismissed for just three after being caught at point while trying to drive the ball.

Masood is also doubtful for the three-match Test series against England, beginning on August 19. According to PCB, his availability for the first England Test at Leeds will depend on his recovery and clinical progress. Masood will stay with the side in the West Indies and also travel with the team to England.

Who can replace Masood?

Pakistan have three options to replace Masood for the upcoming second Test against the West Indies as they strengthened their batting by adding Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel to their squad. The duo came in after Abdullah Fazal was ruled out of the series due to a lower-back injury ahead of the opening Test.

Pakistan also have the uncapped Awais Zafar, a right-hand middle-order batter, in the squad. Meanwhile, the Babar Azam-led side will be desperate to level the series in the second Test after facing a 90-run hammering in the series opener.