3rd T20: Wahab recovers to fire against the Kiwis

Pakistan team physiotherapist is confident left-arm quickie will be fit for selection in the final T20I

Pakistan left-arm seamer Wahab Riaz has recovered from the bruise on his bowling arm and is fit to play in the third and decisive T20 against New Zealand on Friday.

Team Pakistan physiotherapist Brad Robbinson, on Wednesday, said that Wahab completed a full-training session of bowling and fielding and will be available for selection in the last 20-over encounter.



“Wahab suffered a bruised left forearm after being struck in the nets by a short pitched delivery,” said Robbinson. “The bruise was appropriately managed using ice and compression. Today [Wednesday], he successfully completed a full practice session involving fielding and bowling. I am confident he will be fit for selection in the final T20I against New Zealand on Friday,” he added.

Pakistan were beat down and out by New Zealand in the second T20 by 10 wickets as the hosts chased a 169-run target. Pakistan started off the three-match series with a 16-run victory over the Kiwis. With the series poised at 1-1, the last T20 at Wellington will decide the winner.



Shahid Afridi-led Pakistan side participated in a three-and-half-hour long training session on Wednesday under the supervision of head coach Waqar Younis.

Earlier, on Tuesday, Pakistan team’s media manager Agha Akbar was contacted and he confirmed that Wahab was fine and the injury was not serious.



“Wahab sustained a glancing blow while batting in the nets today and there is nothing serious about it,” Akbar told The Express Tribune. “No scans were required. There was little bruising around his elbow but he was treated and has been asked to apply some ice so that the bruising can be minimised. He remains in contention for the T20I series decider.”

The T20 series will be followed by a three-match ODI series where Pakistan ODI captain Azhar Ali will lead the side.

Brad Robbinson was quoted by the PCB