In an unexpected turn of events, Pakistan’s fast bowler Hasan Ali will be sidelined for their crucial group-stage match against South Africa in the ICC World Cup. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made an official announcement, confirming Hasan Ali’s absence due to illness. This development adds a layer of complexity to Pakistan’s campaign in the tournament as they gear up for a must-win clash in Chennai on October 27.
The team management revealed that Hasan Ali has been battling a fever since the previous night. While his condition is improving, he will be granted the necessary rest to ensure a full recovery before returning to action. The decision to prioritize Hasan Ali’s health reflects the team’s commitment to the well-being of their players.
Hasan Ali’s absence is a significant blow to Pakistan’s World Cup aspirations. He was called back into the squad after Naseem Shah’s shoulder injury, and his contributions have been invaluable. In his five World Cup appearances, Hasan Ali managed to secure eight wickets, showcasing his effectiveness as a fast bowler.
Pakistan, the 1992 World Cup champions, began the tournament on a promising note with victories over the Netherlands and Sri Lanka. However, they faced setbacks with heavy losses to hosts India and Australia. The most shocking blow came in their last outing when they were defeated by Afghanistan, a match that raised questions about their World Cup campaign.
The upcoming match against South Africa presents a formidable challenge for Pakistan. The Proteas have been in stellar form, securing four wins in five matches. Their strong performance follows an unexpected loss to the Netherlands, highlighting their resilience in the tournament.
With four group games remaining, Pakistan finds itself in a precarious position. While their chances of making it to the semi-finals are still alive, the margin for error is minimal. All-rounder Shadab Khan emphasized the team’s belief in the possibility of “miracles” and framed the upcoming matches as “do-or-die” battles to revive their World Cup campaign.
Expectations from Pakistan have always been high, and underperforming in a high-stakes tournament like the World Cup inevitably creates pressure. The team has faced criticism for their performance across all departments of the game. Nevertheless, they remain determined to turn the tide and regain their winning momentum.
