AUS vs PAK: Khurram Shahzad ruled out of remainder of Test series

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Pakistan pace bowling was given another jolt as Khurram Shahzad is ruled out of the remainder of the Australia Test series over a rib stress fracture and an abdominal muscle tear. Scans on his ribs revealed a fracture in the left tenth rib.

Khurram Shahzad, who took three wickets on his Test debut spell during the first Test, complained of side soreness while bowling in Perth. The 24-year-old seam bowler picked the wickets of David Warner and Marnus Labuschagne among his important scalps.

"PCB will now consult a specialist in Australia after which a final management protocol will be established for the player," a statement by the Pakistan Cricket Board read. "He will then return to the NCA in Lahore where he will continue his injury management and rehabilitation."

Pakistan's declining bowling injury problems are exacerbated by the absence of Khurram Shahzad. Due to a chronic injury, Naseem Shah was unable to participate in the tour, and legspinner Abrar Ahmed was unable to play in the first Test due to right leg discomfort. For the duration of the tour, he is a serious doubt.

His substitute left-arm spinner Noman Ali had a finger ailment, said Pakistan head coach Mohammad Hafeez. Arriving too late to participate in the first Test, Sajid Khan was brought in as cover. Pakistan is anticipated to use him in the second Test as they aim to field a specialist spinner.

In terms of a like-for-like replacement for Shahzad, Pakistan have Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Junior in the mix. A lot will depend on Aamer Jamal now, who took six wickets in the first game while senior pacer Shaheen Afridi could pick just two wickets.

Pakistan, who are trailing 1-0 in the series, will play a practice match against the Victorian XI team over two days at the Junction Oval. Since it won't be a first-class match, Pakistan can give as many players a run as they require it.