Due to a scare, explosive batsman Azam Khan’s availability to play against the Black Caps is uncertain as Pakistan’s cricket team prepares to play New Zealand in the first of five Twenty20 International matches today.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) reports that during Wednesday’s practice session, Azam felt pain in his right knee and right calf muscle while batting in the nets.
The board stated in a statement that the right-handed batter, who is now under the care of the medical staff, is receiving quick medical attention and treatment; nonetheless, his participation in the future matches against New Zealand is contingent upon the findings of the radiological studies.
Known for his explosive run-scoring prowess, Azam has played for Pakistan in eight Twenty20 Internationals. The 25-year-old has scored 29 runs at an average of 7.83 in seven innings, with 10 being the best score.
Michael Bracewell’s Black Caps, without some of its important players, will face up against the Green Shirts, led by newly appointed captain Babar Azam, who was just promoted back to the top position after leaving the role in November of last year.
This is the third five-match series between the two teams in a 12-month span; the previous year, the Black Caps won the series 4-1 in their home country while Pakistan and New Zealand split the four series in Pakistan by winning two games apiece.
The Men in Green have an advantage over the visitors in the game’s shortest format, with 21 victories and 17 defeats versus the Black Caps. Both teams want to take advantage of the chance to strengthen preparations and fine-tune their team combinations ahead of the 2024 T20I World Cup, which is scheduled for June.
