Wahab Riaz out of second Test with fractured hand

 

Pakistan’s ace fast bowler Wahab Riaz was ruled out of the second Test against Sri Lanka after fracturing his left-hand on the first day.

Riaz, who played a vital role in Pakistan’s thumping win in the first Test, was hit on his bowling hand by a Dushmantha Chameera bouncer while batting.

The 29-year-old Pakistan paceman delivered nine overs but appeared in discomfort until he was taken off. Scans on his hand confirmed a hairline fracture, ruling him out of proceedings in Colombo.

“Wahab underwent X-rays after play on Thursday and they showed a hairline fracture on his left-hand,” team manager Naveed Cheema told reporters.

“He can’t play for at least two weeks.”

Pakistan were shot out for 138 in their first innings just before tea on the opening day and with the Sri Lanka ending the day on 70/1, Misbah-ul-Haq’s side were already in a bit of strife. Riaz’s injury will compound Pakistan’s woes who are already without the services of Mohammad Hafeez who has been reported again for a suspect action.

Junaid Khan, Yasir Shah and Zulfiqar Babar will share the burden in the absence of the left-arm quick. And with Ehsan Adil and Imran Khan on the bench, it is unclear whether Pakistan will risk Riaz in the third Test should it become a decider. (Cricket Sources)