Pakistan pacer Mir Hamza exits Test squad due to leg injury

Pakistan pacer Mir Hamza has been officially released from the national Test squad after experiencing discomfort in his right leg, just ahead of the ongoing third and final Test against England in Rawalpindi.

Hamza, who had reported slight discomfort before the match, was unable to participate in training sessions, and will now undergo rehabilitation in Karachi under the supervision of the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) medical team.

The left-arm pacer was observed performing rehabilitation exercises during Pakistan’s practice session on Tuesday.

Instead of bowling, Hamza focused on strengthening his glutes under the guidance of physiotherapist Cliffe Deacon, utilizing resistance bands in exercises such as glute bridges and clam shells.

According to PCB sources, Hamza is expected to need around three weeks for a full recovery, which casts doubt over his availability for Pakistan's upcoming white-ball tour of Australia.

The Men in Green are gearing up for a three-match ODI and T20I series in Australia this November.

The Pakistan team will depart for Melbourne on October 29, with training sessions scheduled at the iconic Melbourne Cricket Ground on November 1 and 2. An optional practice session is set for November 3, just ahead of the first ODI on November 4.

Australia White-Ball Series Schedule:

ODI Series

• 4 November: MCG, Melbourne (D/N)
• 8 November: Adelaide Oval, Adelaide (D/N)
• 10 November: Perth Stadium, Perth (D/N)

T20I Series

• 14 November: The Gabba, Brisbane (N)
• 16 November: SCG, Sydney (N)
• 18 November: Bellerive Oval, Hobart (N)