Pakistan’s Shan Masood ruled out of second West Indies Test due to injury

Pakistan has been dealt a significant setback ahead of the second ICC World Test Championship Test against the West Indies, with experienced batter Shan Masood ruled out after suffering a finger injury.

What happened to Shan Masood?

Masood picked up the injury during the opening Test at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy in Trinidad. The left-hander was struck on the index finger of his left hand by a delivery from West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales while batting in Pakistan’s first innings. Pakistan eventually slipped to a 90-run defeat, leaving the visitors under pressure heading into the series finale.

How serious is the injury?

Pakistan confirmed that scans and medical assessments revealed enough damage to sideline Masood for the second Test, which begins on Sunday at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain.

According to the team management, Masood is currently receiving treatment under the supervision of the Pakistan medical staff. While he will remain with the squad, his participation in the opening Test of Pakistan’s upcoming England series, scheduled to begin on August 19 at Headingley, will depend on how quickly he recovers.

The uncertainty means Pakistan could also be without one of their most experienced top-order batters for the start of a crucial away series.

Who could replace him in the playing XI?

Masood’s absence comes after Pakistan’s batting struggled throughout the first Test, increasing the likelihood of changes to the lineup.

Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel, both added to the squad after Abdullah Fazal was ruled out with a back injury before the series, are leading contenders for a recall. Meanwhile, uncapped right-handed batter Awais Zafar is also in contention and could be handed his Test debut if the selectors opt for fresh talent.

Pakistan currently occupy ninth place in the World Test Championship standings, one position behind the West Indies. With valuable points at stake, the second Test has become even more important as Pakistan look to level the series and revive their campaign.