Naseem Shah made a return to international cricket today (November 4) at the MCG, but his comeback was marred by injury as he limped off the field during the first ODI against Australia. This match marked his first appearance since being rested from Pakistan’s squad.
Naseem had a noteworthy impact with the bat, scoring 40 runs off just 39 balls while batting at No. 9. Pakistan found themselves in a precarious situation, struggling at 148-7 and on the verge of being bowled out for under 200. However, with his explosive innings that included four sixes and one four, Naseem helped push Pakistan past the 200-run mark, which was a significant feat considering he had only managed a total of 31 runs in his previous 14 ODIs.
Despite Naseem’s efforts, Pakistan’s total was deemed below par. He took to the bowling crease in the second over of Australia’s chase but faced difficulties with his line, conceding 14 runs in his opening over. Prior to this match, Naseem had been on a nearly month-long break from cricket after being rested from Pakistan’s Test squad following their loss in the first Test against England. The selection committee had also rested Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi, and Pakistan went on to win the subsequent two Tests of that series.
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Naseem’s fortunes changed when he dismissed Jake Fraser-McGurk in his second over, but as Australia moved towards their target at 139-3, Shaheen Afridi managed to take out Josh Inglis just one run short of his half-century. Haris Rauf then added two quick wickets, revitalizing Pakistan’s hopes. However, when Naseem returned to bowl, Australia required just eight runs with two wickets remaining.
After delivering two balls in his over, Naseem visibly struggled with discomfort in his left calf. The physio was called onto the field, but Naseem walked off without assistance. Mohammad Hasnain completed the over, and Australia ultimately secured their victory in the 34th over.
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Naseem’s injury raises significant concerns for Pakistan as they face a packed international schedule ahead. Following this three-match ODI series against Australia, they will embark on a T20I series that wraps up on November 18. Pakistan will then compete against Zimbabwe in both ODI and T20I formats before traveling to South Africa for a tour covering all three formats, stretching into the end of the year.
