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[Saba Sports News] Pakistan has revealed its 18-member lineup for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023. While cricket fans eagerly awaited the inclusion of young fast bowler Naseem Shah, an unfortunate shoulder injury has shattered those hopes. This injury, sustained while fielding during the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023, has officially removed him from the prestigious tournament.
In a glimmer of hope for the Pakistani team, Hasan Ali, renowned for his pace prowess, has been chosen as Naseem’s replacement. The 20-year-old expressed his feelings about this unexpected twist of fate through a heartfelt post on his social media handle: “With a heavy heart, I’m sharing that I will not be part of this amazing team that will be representing our beloved country. While I’m disappointed, I believe everything is in Allah’s hands. InshahAllah will be on the field very soon.”
Tragedy for young Naseem unfolded during Pakistan’s Asia Cup Super-Four clash against arch-rivals India in Colombo, where he was forced to leave the field before completing his 10th over. Following a medical evaluation, surgery has been recommended, which is expected to keep him out of action for approximately four months.
Pakistan’s fast bowling arsenal will now be led by the talented Shaheen Shah Afridi, with support from the likes of Haris Rauf, Mohammed Waseem, and Hasan Ali. The team remains largely unchanged under the captaincy of Babar Azam.
Responding to Naseem’s unfortunate injury, Pakistan’s Chief Selector, Inzamam Ul Haq, expressed his disappointment, stating, “Naseem Shah is a key bowler for us, but he’s injured. Unfortunately, the report we have from our doctors suggests that Naseem will be sidelined for a longer duration than just the World Cup. At this time, he was, in my view, the world’s best bowler. It’s a significant loss for Pakistan, and we sincerely hope for his swift recovery.”