Mohammad Abbas, Shadab Khan ruled out of South Africa Test

Karachi: Fast bowler Mohammad Abbas and spinner Shadab Khan are ruled out of Pakistan’s first Test against South Africa starting on December 26 at Centurion, the PCB announced on Thursday.

The PCB, however, added that the players will remain with the touring squad to continue with their rehabilitation program as team management is hopeful that the duo will be able to return before the second Test.

“After assessing both Leg-spinner Shadab Khan and Fast Bowler Mohammad Abbas, the Pakistan team management has agreed that the two are not fit for the first Test match against South Africa that begins on December 26 in Centurion,” said a statement by PCB.

“Both Shadab and Abbas have made great progress recently and are improving every day. They will continue with their current Rehabilitation Program as well as their Return to Play Program,” the statement added.

The PCB further said that if all goes according to plan, the team management is positive that both the players will be available for selection for the second Test in Cape Town that begins on January 3.

It is worth mentioning that both the players were included in the squad for the tour despite the fact that they were not fully fit, even at the time of their selection.