Usman Khan bats as concussion substitute for injured Imam-ul-Haq in third ODI against NZ

IANS April 5, 2025 189 views

Pakistan experienced another dramatic player substitution in their third ODI against New Zealand when Usman Khan replaced the injured Imam-ul-Haq after a serious on-field incident. The replacement occurred following Imam being struck on the jaw while batting, requiring medical evacuation and a concussion assessment. Under ICC regulations, teams are permitted to make like-for-like substitutions in such medical emergencies, allowing Usman to enter the match. Despite returning to the team, Usman was quickly dismissed, scoring just 12 runs before being removed by the New Zealand bowler.

"Usman Khan has been named the concussion substitute for Imam-ul-Haq" - Pakistan Cricket Board
Mount Maunganui, April 5: Pakistan’s explosive batter Usman Khan was allowed to take the field and bat despite not being included in the original playing XI for the third ODI against New Zealand at Bay Oval, Mount Maunganui.

Key Points

1

Imam stretchered off after serious jaw injury during batting

2

ICC allows like-for-like concussion replacement

3

Usman Khan returns to playing XI

4

Second consecutive ODI with concussion substitution

The decision came after opener Imam-ul-Haq suffered a serious injury early in Pakistan’s innings.

Imam, who had returned to the side replacing Usman for the match, was struck on the jaw by the ball while completing a single. The blow was severe enough to warrant immediate medical attention, and the southpaw had to be stretchered off the field. Following a medical assessment, the team management confirmed that Imam had sustained a concussion and would play no further part in the game.

As per ICC regulations, a team is allowed to bring in a like-for-like concussion substitute in such scenarios. Pakistan named Usman Khan as Imam’s replacement - a move well within the framework of the rules.

"Usman Khan has been named the concussion substitute for Imam-ul-Haq, who sustained an injury after being struck on the jaw by the ball," the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed in a social media post.

Usman, who had impressed with a quick cameo in the series opener before missing the second game due to a hamstring concern, returned to the field but failed to make a major impact. He was dismissed for just 12 runs by New Zealand pacer Mohammad Abbas.

This incident marks the second consecutive ODI in which a Pakistani player has suffered a concussion. In the previous match, Naseem Shah had replaced Haris Rauf, who was hit on the helmet while batting.

Reader Comments

A
Ahmed K.
Wow, two concussions in back-to-back matches? 😮 Pakistan really needs to work on their protective gear and maybe batting technique. Hope Imam recovers soon though - that looked painful!
S
Sana R.
Concussion subs are such a good rule change by ICC. Remember when players used to just tough it out? Dangerous stuff. Glad we're prioritizing player safety now.
M
Mohsin T.
Usman Khan was unlucky today but he's shown promise. That quick 40 in the first ODI was electric! Hope he gets more consistent chances in the team.
F
Fatima A.
Respectfully, I think the team management made a mistake bringing Usman in as sub when he was just coming off a hamstring issue. Should've given someone else a chance to prove themselves.
B
Bilal N.
The real story here is how many injuries Pakistan is dealing with! First Haris, now Imam... our physio team must be working overtime 💪
Z
Zara S.
That moment when Imam got hit was scary to watch. Cricket balls are no joke - they come at you hard. Wishing him a speedy recovery ❤️‍🩹

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

Tags:
Cricket Pakistan Cricket New Zealand ODI Concussion Substitute Usman Khan Imam-ul-Haq ICC Rules
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