Mir Hamza's Glute Issue Raises Doubts for Third Test Against England
Pakistan's first session at the venue ahead of the Test. Although the 32-year-old has been part of the squad for the first two Tests, he has not made it into the playing XI. In contrast, Mohammad Ali, another fast bowler in Pakistan's 16-man squad, bowled at full intensity during the nets.
Mir Hamza is dealing with a niggle in his right glute, casting uncertainty over his availability for the third Test against England, scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi starting Thursday. The left-arm pacer did not participate in training or bowling during Pakistan's three-hour practice session on Tuesday.
At the beginning of the session, Hamza was seen pacing around the ground and performing glute exercises with resistance bands under the supervision of physiotherapist Cliffe Deacon. His routine included double and single-leg glute bridges as well as clam shell exercises.
Reports indicate that Hamza also refrained from bowling during Monday's practice, which was Pakistan's first session at the venue ahead of the Test. Although the 32-year-old has been part of the squad for the first two Tests, he has not made it into the playing XI.
In contrast, Mohammad Ali, another fast bowler in Pakistan's 16-man squad, bowled at full intensity during the nets. He is a strong candidate to replace leg-spinner Zahid Mehmood in the lineup for the third Test.
Ali has featured in Pakistan's last three Tests in Rawalpindi, making his debut against England in December 2022 and playing both Tests against Bangladesh. However, his performance has been disappointing, with just six wickets at an average of 55.50. In his most recent outing at this venue, he went wicketless, conceding 57 runs across 24 overs.
As Pakistan prepares for the upcoming Test, Hamza's recovery will be closely monitored, while the team evaluates their options for the bowling attack.
