Pakistan’s Abrar Ahmed Hospitalized During England Test Series

Abrar Ahmed, Pakistan‘s lead spinner in the ongoing Test match against England, has been hospitalized due to illness, complicating matters for the home team. The match, taking place in Multan, has seen Abrar struggling on the field, with reports indicating that he was suffering from a high fever and body aches on the fourth day of the Test.

According to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the legspinner underwent several medical tests, and a statement regarding his condition is expected once the results are confirmed. Abrar Ahmed did not take part in the morning session with his teammates, raising concerns about his availability for the rest of England’s innings.

In the previous day’s play, Abrar Ahmed bowled 31 overs, where he was specifically targeted by England’s batsmen, including notable players Joe Root and Harry Brook. His final figures of 35-0-174-0 stand in contrast to his brilliant debut performance against England at the same venue, where he captured 11 wickets in the match.

Injuries have previously marred Abrar’s cricketing career. Having started his professional journey with Peshawar Zalmi in the Pakistan Super League as an 18-year-old, he suffered persistent back issues and a nerve injury that affected his participation in several international assignments.

With Abrar Ahmed’s current health status, Pakistan was left to rely on part-time bowlers Salman Ali Agha, Saim Ayub, and Saud Shakeel, who bowled a combined nine overs in England’s innings. The main spinners Noman Ali and Zahid Mahmood were part of the initial squad but were dropped ahead of the match.

The first Test against England was crucial for Pakistan, as they attempted to consolidate their red-ball team but now face an uphill battle without their premier spinner. Further updates on Abrar Ahmed’s health and their squad’s strategy going forward are awaited eagerly by fans and analysts alike.

ESPNcricinfo‘s Pakistan correspondent, Danyal Rasool, confirmed these developments, indicating the uncertainty around Abrar Ahmed’s return and role in this series.