(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] Former Pakistan pace-bowler Umar Gul accused Shadab Khan of ‘faking his injury’ in the recently held 26th match of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, which took place in Chennai on Friday, October 27.
Shadab Khan was ruled out of Pakistan’s tie against the Proteas due to a concussion he sustained while diving in the field during the first over of the second innings. Initially, a stretcher was prepared, but Shadab managed to leave the field on foot. He then attempted to return to the game after warming up on the sidelines, but he was substituted with 27-year-old leg-spinner Usama Mir. Consequently, Usama became the first-ever concussion substitute in ODI World Cup history.
However, Gul expressed doubt as he believed that Shadab made an excuse to leave the field and questioned the latter’s intentions.
“We dont know what kind of injury he had, but several questions are raised. Questions are raised when you fall, make an excuse of a concussion, walk out, physio checks you, and after a while you talk to people on the sidelines, then go inside again,” Gul said on a Pakistani news channel.
The vice-captain of the Pakistan team, Shadab, got substituted without bowling a single delivery, but he made crucial runs for his team while batting, scoring a 36-ball 43 with the help of three fours and two sixes. Whereas his substitute, Usama, contributed with 2 wickets, dismissing Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram. He also conceded 45 runs in eight overs.
Nevertheless, the Men in Green lost the last-over thriller by just one wicket, marking their fourth consecutive loss in the ongoing tournament. They are currently placed at the sixth position on the points table.