Shadab Khan declared fit to play for World Cup

LAHORE: Shadab Khan has been declared fit for the World Cup after his latest test results reflected zero viral load in his blood, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced in a press release on Tuesday 

The leg-spinner will leave for London on Thursday, May 16, where he will consult Dr Patrick Kennedy on Friday, 17 May, before joining the team in Bristol on Monday, 20 May.

However, Shadab’s appearances in the World Cup warm-up matches, scheduled for May 24 and 26 against Afghanistan and Bangladesh respectively, are subject to his fitness and the team management’s decision.

“I am delighted to know that the blood tests are negative and I can now return to competitive cricket. I was always very confident that I would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup," said the leg spinner.

“Having played and won the ICC Champions Trophy 2017, I understand the importance, flavour and glamour of global events and what success in such events mean to the players and the public. I am looking forward to featuring in the World Cup and will leave no stone unturned in helping Pakistan put up a strong show."

He said it was difficult for him to stay away from international cricket and watch Pakistan play outstandingly – both in Cardiff and Southampton. 

"As a professional cricketer, you want to be part of such games. In both the matches, Pakistan have shown their capability and ability, and I am sure with some fine tuning, we will be ready to take on the world,” he added. 

Coach Mickey Arthur expressed his delight over the development and said that he is looking forward to welcoming Shadab back in the squad. 

"Shadab is one of the finest of his generation and is an influential figure in the team. His presence in the dressing room and on the field of play keeps the side geared up and motivated," said the coach. “Shadab’s inclusion also balances what is a young but extremely talented squad."

Arthur said that Shadab has got two weeks to regain complete form and fitness.

“He is a brave lad and the way he has fought back to regain fitness is a testament to his attitude and approach, which gives us the encouragement that he will be hopefully available for selection for our World Cup opener,” he said.

Shadab was named in the original 15-player World Cup 2019 squad on April 18. However, he was withdrawn from the series against England after blood tests revealed a virus that required treatment and rest for at least four weeks. 

On April 26, the PCB had set-up Shadab’s appointment with Dr Kennedy, a world-renowned gastroenterologist and hepatologist with specialisation in liver diseases in elite sportsmen, who had put him on medication and advised two weeks of complete rest.