Pakistan utilized the concussion substitute rule for the very first time in the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup when they faced South Africa in Chennai.
During the game, spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan sustained an injury in the first over of South Africa’s second innings at the Chidambaram Stadium, forcing him to exit the match.
His replacement, Usama Mir, immediately left a mark by taking a wicket in his debut over. The incident that led to Shadab’s injury occurred when he attempted a run-out with an impressive dive in the field.
Unfortunately, this exertion had an adverse effect on Shadab, causing him to fall heavily on his right shoulder, with his head snapping towards the firm Chennai square.
Replays did not conclusively show whether Shadab’s head made contact with the ground or if he suffered whiplash from the abrupt motion following his shoulder’s impact. Nevertheless, it was evident that the 25-year-old was in distress, lying still while awaiting medical attention.
Following initial assessments, Shadab had to leave the field, and he was subsequently deemed unfit to continue. The concussion substitution rule was then applied, allowing Usama Mir to take his place as an active member of the bowling attack, marking a historic moment in ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup history.
Shadab’s injury was so early in the innings that he hadn’t even bowled a single delivery, and Usama Mir wasted no time making an impact, dismissing Rassie van der Dussen for 21 in his very first over.
Both bowlers are leg-break spinners, with Shadab holding a superior average and economy rate throughout his ODI career.
READ MORE: Zaka Ashraf Meets Sarfaraz Ahmed After Karachi Whites’ Victory
