Lahore: The inclusion of Pakistan’s key player Mohammad Rizwan in the team for the third T20I in the ongoing home series against New Zealand in Lahore is uncertain, sources say that the wicketkeeper-batsman could not recover from a back injury. Because of that last match
Rizwan suffered a back muscle strain while batting during the second T20I on Saturday, sending him off the field in the seventh over of New Zealand’s run chase.
Sources say that the cricketer’s condition will be reassessed today after which a decision will be taken regarding his inclusion in the playing XI for today’s match. He added that although Rizwan’s injury is not serious, it is more likely that the right-handed batsman will be rested as a precautionary measure, while substitute Mohammad Haris will take over the gloves in his place.
Pakistan are all set to take on New Zealand for their third straight win to clinch the five-match T20I series. The hosts lead the series 2-0.
Eight Kiwis are missing due to the Indian Premier League (IPL) and skipper Kane Williamson has a bad knee injury, leaving the captaincy to Tom Latham to bat – and the newcomers to shine. There are plenty of opportunities.
Pakistan and New Zealand will also face each other in five one-day internationals after the T20 series, in preparation for this year’s 50-over World Cup in India.
