Pakistan batsman Imam-ul-Haq‘s scans returned clear after he was rushed to the hospital for ‘precautionary tests’ following a blow to the helmet during the second ODI against New Zealand in Abu Dhabi. The PCB said Imam will be under the team physio’s observation.
The opener was struck on the grille off the first ball of the 13th over from New Zealand fast bowler Lockie Ferguson when he was batting on 16 and retired hurt shortly after. Ferguson’s bouncer had beaten Imam for pace as he tried to pull it.
It was clear as soon as he was struck that he was in discomfort, with Imam dropping his bat and reaching for his helmet as he stumbled towards the floor. Moments later, he was lying down with his eyes closed, although he did not lose consciousness. During a lengthy examination by doctors on field, he continued to look dazed and unfocused even after getting back on his feet .
It appeared as if he wanted to stay on, but it became clear that wasn’t possible when he hobbled briefly from a stationary position as batting partner Fakhar Zaman and New Zealand captain Kane Williamson checked on him. At this point, umpire Shozab Raza intervened and signaled for the doctors to help Imam off the field. A PCB spokesperson confirmed that Imam was conscious inside the ambulance while being driven to the hospital.
Imam had just returned to the side for this ODI series after a freak finger injury in the second Test against Australia last month.
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