Pakistan pacer Naseem Shah on Wednesday (September 13) was ruled out of the remainder of the Asia Cup 2023 due to a shoulder injury.
It is a massive blow to the Pakistan team ahead of their must-win clash against Sri Lanka on Thursday (September 14).
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) named Zaman Khan, who is yet to make his ODI debut, as Naseem's replacement while also calling up fast bowler Shahnawaz Dahani.
"Right-arm fast bowler Zaman Khan has replaced Naseem Shah in Pakistan's 17-player squad for the ongoing men's ODI Asia Cup 2023," the PCB said in a statement.
"Zaman joined the team in the morning today and will train with the squad at the RPICS in the evening," the board added.
Naseem picked up the injury during the game against India, and left the field after bowling 9.2 overs without any wicket.
"Naseem injured his right shoulder during the match against India. He continues to be monitored by the team's medical panel that is taking all necessary precautions keeping in mind the ICC men's Cricket World Cup 2023," the PCB said.
Pakistan also missed the services of Haris Rauf due to side strain in the marquee clash against India. The right-arm quick did not bowl when the match resumed on the reserve day.
"Haris Rauf, who did not bowl on the reserve day of Pakistan vs India contest as a precautionary measure, continues to recover well after he felt discomfort in his right flank on the first day of the match," the PCB stated.
“These two fast bowlers are our assets and the team’s medical panel will provide them the best possible care ahead of the all-important World Cup,” Team doctor Sohail Saleem said in a statement issued by PCB.