Pakistan players affected with illness – reports

Cricket News: Which Pakistan players are affected from illness? | Several Pakistan players reportedly battling viral bacterial infection

Just days out from their crucial World Cup game against Australia, a number of Pakistan players have reportedly been struck down by a viral bacterial infection. The illness has resulted in the cancellation of their practice session on Tuesday, October 17, which has been moved to Wednesday 2pm Indian time.

According to SAMAA TV journalist Qadir Khawaja, four players have fallen sick in recent days. Legspinner Usama Mir is said to have been quite ill over a four-to-five day period, but has now recovered. Seamer Zaman Khan has also reportedly recovered.

Which Pakistan players are currently affected by illness?

Crucial left-arm pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi is has picked up a viral infection after reaching Bengaluru, where the match against Australia will be played. According to Khawaja, Shaheen has been receiving antibiotic drops to aid his recovery.

Also, opener Abdullah Shafique, who has made an excellent start to his World Cup campaign, has been down with fever.

Both players will be monitored ahead of the Australia clash, where Pakistan need to be at their best in the quest for an important victory. Babar Azam’s team have won two and lost one match so far in the 2023 World Cup, but their victories have come against winless Netherlands and Sri Lanka.

With tougher matches still ahead, and Australia looking to recover after a poor start to their campaign, Pakistan need to win to keep belief high after a difficult outing against India last Saturday.