The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Thursday that medical scans revealed a fracture in Masood's left index finger. As a result, he will not be considered for selection for the second Test against the West Indies, which begins on Sunday in Port of Spain.
Masood sustained the injury during Pakistan's first innings of the opening Test in Trinidad when he was struck on the hand by a delivery from West Indies fast bowler Jayden Seales. Despite the painful blow, he carried on batting and went on to score his seventh Test century. However, his outstanding individual performance was not enough to prevent Pakistan from suffering a 90-run defeat at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.
The impact of the injury became increasingly evident on the final day of the match. Masood was unable to take the field at the start of the fourth morning due to the finger injury. Later, with Pakistan struggling at 53 for 6 while chasing a target of 211, he came out to bat at No. 8. Unable to put proper pressure on his injured left hand, Masood was forced to bat almost entirely with one hand. His brave effort was short-lived, as he managed just three runs before being caught at point.
The PCB has not yet provided a timeline for Masood's recovery. However, the board confirmed that his participation in the first Test against England, scheduled to begin on August 19 in Leeds, will depend entirely on how well he responds to rehabilitation. For now, his place in the squad for that match remains in doubt.
Although he will miss the second Test against the West Indies, Masood will continue to stay with the squad throughout the remainder of the Caribbean tour. He is also expected to travel with the team to England, where his treatment and rehabilitation will continue under the supervision of the medical staff.
Pakistan have several options to replace Masood in the second Test. Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel are currently the leading candidates for a place in the playing XI after Abdullah Fazal was ruled out before the first Test with a lower-back injury. The squad also includes uncapped right-handed middle-order batter Awais Jafar, who could be in contention for his international debut.
Masood's century in the first Test showcased his determination and resilience, but the injury sustained during that innings has now sidelined him from the remainder of the West Indies series. With the important England tour approaching, Pakistan will be hoping one of their most experienced batters recovers in time to strengthen the side.
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