Pakistan Suffer Major Blow as Shan Masood Ruled Out of Second West Indies Test

TRINIDAD: Pakistan have been dealt another setback ahead of the second and final Test against the West Indies, with experienced batter Shan Masood ruled out after fracturing the index finger of his left hand during the opening match at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

The injury occurred on the third day of the first Test when Shan was struck on the hand by a delivery from West Indies pacer Jayden Seales.

Following medical examinations and scans, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that the left-hander has sustained a fracture. He is currently undergoing treatment under the supervision of the national team’s medical staff.

Despite being unavailable for the series decider, Shan will remain with the squad in the Caribbean to continue his rehabilitation programme.

The PCB added that his participation in Pakistan’s opening Test against England, scheduled to begin on 19 August at Headingley in Leeds, will depend on how well he recovers over the coming weeks.

Shan’s absence is a significant blow for Pakistan, who are already trailing 1-0 in the two-match series after a disappointing defeat in the opener.

Chasing 211 for victory, Pakistan’s batting line-up crumbled for just 120, handing the West Indies a comprehensive 90-run win.

Captain Babar Azam stood firm with an unbeaten 58 off 107 deliveries, striking nine boundaries, while Mohammad Abbas contributed 23, but the rest of the batting order failed to offer meaningful resistance.

Seales starred with the ball for the hosts, claiming outstanding figures of 5/20 to dismantle Pakistan’s batting and seal the victory.

The series-deciding second Test will be played at Queen’s Park Oval in Port of Spain, Trinidad, from 2 to 6 August.