NZ vs PAK: Imam-Ul-Haq Leaves Field In Ambulance After NASTY Blow On Helmet — WATCH
In what came as an alarming moment for the Pakistan star opener Imam-ul-Haq, he had to be carried off the field after being struck on the helmet by an errant throw from a New Zealand fielder during the NZ vs PAK 3rd ODI at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on April 5 (Saturday). Imam, visibly in severe pain, received medical attention on the field before being taken off in an ambulance.
The incident unfolded in the third over of Pakistan’s innings during the match, when Imam-ul-Haq attempted a quick single after playing a delivery from William O’Rourke to the off-side. A throw aimed at the non-striker’s end struck him on the helmet, leaving the left-hander visibly shaken. He immediately removed his helmet, clutched his jaw and collapsed to the ground in clear discomfort. After receiving medical attention, Imam was taken off the field in a buggy ambulance. The opener had faced seven balls and scored one run before he had to retire hurt.
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Watch Imam-ul-Haq's injury video here:
Pakistan's Struggles Continue Against New Zealand
Coming to the NZ vs PAK 3rd ODI, New Zealand set a target of 265 for Pakistan in a match reduced to 42 overs due to a wet outfield. Debutant Rhys Mariu impressed with a composed 58, giving the hosts a strong start. Daryl Mitchell added a steady 43 in the middle overs, while skipper Michael Bracewell provided the finishing touches with a blistering 59 off 40 balls to help New Zealand post a competitive total.
Chasing 266, Pakistan got off to a positive start, credit to Babar Azam’s fifty. However after Babar’s wicket, Pakistan batting suffered a collapse and found themselves in trouble at 214-8 in 38 overs, needing 51 runs to win in 24 balls (at the time of writing this article).
Having already lost the series after defeats in the first two ODIs, Pakistan came into the match under pressure. Their woes were compounded by a disappointing 4-1 loss in the preceding T20I series. While the T20Is saw Pakistan field a youthful squad, they returned to full strength for the ODIs—yet failed to meet expectations in the first two games.
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