In a setback for Pakistan, seasoned spinner Noman Ali has been ruled out of the ongoing Test series against Australia due to acute appendicitis. The 37-year-old cricketer was admitted to the hospital on Friday evening after experiencing sudden and intense abdominal pain, leading to the diagnosis of acute appendicitis through scans.
Following the diagnosis, Noman Ali underwent a laparoscopic appendectomy on Saturday morning, marking the end of his participation in the Test series. A statement from Pakistan Cricket (PCB) confirmed his stable condition post-surgery, and he is expected to be discharged later in the day.
Noman Ali joins long injury list
Noman Ali absence adds to the challenges faced by the Pakistani team, already grappling with injuries and illnesses. Seamer Khurram Shahzad was ruled out earlier in the week due to a stress fracture in his ribs and a torn abdominal muscle. Star bowler Naseem Shah is recovering from a shoulder injury, and fast bowler Haris Rauf withdrew from the Test series to participate in the Big Bash League.
Furthermore, leg-spinner Abrar Ahmed availability remains uncertain due to discomfort in his right leg, making him doubtful for the remainder of the series.
With the series currently at 1-0 in favor of Australia, Pakistan aims to secure its first Test victory on Australian soil since 1995. The remaining two Tests in Melbourne and Sydney will determine the fate of the Benaud-Qadir Trophy, with the hosts looking to retain it with either a win or a draw.