Pakistan have suffered a blow in their ODI series against New Zealand, with opener Usman Khan ruled out of the second match on Wednesday (April 2).
Usman was not part of Pakistan’s ODI squad initially and was included after the conclusion of their T20I leg of the tour, which they lost 1-4. Coming into the side at the last minute with Imam-ul-Haq injured, the right-hand batter made his ODI debut in the series opener on Saturday (March 29) in Napier. Opening the innings while chasing New Zealand's 344-9, Usman showed promise, cracking four fours and two sixes, but soon perished for a 33-ball 39 to a delivery from Nathan Smith in the 13th over.
Pakistan couldn't capitalise on the roaring start, capitulating from 249-3 to 271 all out in 44.1 overs to succumb to their fifth loss in six matches in the tour.
Playing their first ODI since the Champions Trophy setback, Pakistan introduced debutants Akif Javed, Mohammad Ali, and Usman Khan.
— Wisden (@WisdenCricket) March 30, 2025
While the trio had a decent outing, they couldn't avert a 73-run loss in Napier.
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Pakistan received yet another setback ahead of the second ODI with Usman being ruled out due to a hamstring injury.
"The 29-year-old opening batter sustained the injury while fielding during his side’s first ODI against New Zealand at the Mclean Park in Napier on Friday," read a statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
"The MRI scan confirmed a Low-Grade tear, making Usman unavailable for second ODI scheduled on 2 April at Seddon Park in Hamilton."
Usman’s ODI call-up came after opener Imam-ul-Haq was ruled out of the first match with a soft tissue injury to his right big toe, sustained during practice.
With Imam’s fitness still uncertain and Usman now unavailable, Pakistan face a selection headache ahead of Wednesday’s second ODI.
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