Pakistani Opening batsman Imam-ul-Haq ruled out of the first test match against New Zealand, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Saturday.

Imam got injured during a practice session two weeks ago in Queenstown when a ball hit his left hand’s thumb.

Pakistan team management has decided to send Imam back home as the batsman is expected to take longer to recover.

Imam, along with captain Babar Azam, was ruled out of the first Test in Mount Maunganui after both suffered thumb injuries. While the team’s medical panel was examining the recovery of both players closely, the board today confirmed that Imam will not be participating in the second Test.

Previously, PCB also announced that all-rounder Shadab Khan has been ruled out for six weeks. “Shadab Khan will miss the second Test against New Zealand in Christchurch and the home series against South Africa after being advised a six-week rest following MRI scans confirmed the injury to the left thigh,” the statement read.

The second and last test match of the series will be played on January 3-7 at Hagley Oval in Christchurch.

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