Pakistan leg-spinner Shadad Khan has been deemed fit for the upcoming 2019 World Cup after his latest test results. It showed that there were zero viral loads in his blood. He was included in the preliminary World Cup squad but went onto miss the ODI series against England after contracting a virus as per reports in the Cricbuzz.
The Pakistan skipper Sarfaraz Ahmed also confirmed about Shadab Khan’s participation in the tournament was confirmed during the toss time of the 3rd ODI between Pakistan and England. Shadab Khan will now fly to England on Thursday where he is expected to consult a doctor. He will subsequently join the Pakistan team in Bristol on 20th May (Monday).
The availability of Shadab Khan in the World Cup warm-up matches remains to be decided in the basis of his fitness and what decision the team management takes before the start of the match. It was revealed by a press release from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
“I am delighted to know that the blood tests are negative and I can now return to competitive cricket,” Shadab Khan said after returning to the Pakistan fold. “I was always very confident that I would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup.
“Having played and won the ICC Champions Trophy 2017, I understand the importance, flavour and glamour of global events and what success in such events mean to the players and the public. I am looking forward to featuring in the World Cup and will leave no stone unturned in helping Pakistan put up a strong show.
“It has been difficult to stay away from international cricket and watch Pakistan play outstandingly – both in Cardiff and Southampton. As a professional cricketer, you want to be part of such games. In both the matches, Pakistan have shown their capability and ability, and I am sure with some fine tuning, we will be ready to take on the world.”
The 20-year-old leg-spinner took a blood test and PCB official confirmed on Tuesday morning that his availability was subject to the medical board and can be revealed only after the results come out. Yasir Shah was considered a possible back up for the leg spinner’s role. Meanwhile, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur is confident of the fact that Shadab Khan will be available for the first game against Windies on 31st May.
“Shadab’s inclusion also balances what is a young but extremely talented squad. I understand it will take Shadab some time to be back at his brilliant best as he has not played cricket for a few weeks, but our first game is on 31 May and he has got two weeks to regain complete form and fitness,” Arthur said.
“He is a brave lad and the way he has fought back to regain fitness is a testament to his attitude and approach, which gives us the encouragement that he will be hopefully available for selection for our World Cup opener.”