In a shocking turn of events during the third ODI against New Zealand, Pakistani opener Imam-ul-Haq was stretchered off the field after suffering a severe injury. The incident occurred at Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui on April 5, 2025, as Pakistan faced a daunting target of 265 runs set by the Kiwis.
The match, which was reduced to 42 overs due to rain, saw New Zealand post a competitive total of 264/8. Captain Michael Bracewell led the charge with a blistering 59 runs off just 40 balls, while opener Rhys Mariu contributed a solid 58 runs from 61 deliveries. The team had already secured the ODI series, having won the first two matches.
Imam-ul-Haq, who had replaced the injured Usman Khan, began the innings alongside Abdullah Shafique. The pair started cautiously, but disaster struck in the third over. After Jacob Duffy bowled a tight first over, New Zealand skipper Michael Bracewell brought in William O'Rourke. Imam managed to nudge a delivery from O'Rourke for a quick single.
As he sprinted towards the other end, a fielder at cover point attempted to run him out by throwing the ball back towards the bowler. Unfortunately, the throw took an awkward bounce and struck Imam on the helmet, with the ball getting lodged in the grill of his protective gear. The impact caused Imam to immediately fall to the ground, clutching his jaw in visible pain.
The Pakistan team physio rushed to the scene to attend to Imam, who was ultimately carried off the field on a stretcher. As he was taken away, the severity of the situation raised concerns among fans and players alike. Social media was flooded with messages of support and worry for the 29-year-old cricketer.
In the wake of Imam's injury, Babar Azam stepped in to join Abdullah Shafique at the crease. As of the latest updates, Pakistan was at 30 runs without loss, with Shafique on 17 not out and Babar on 7. The situation remains delicate as the team looks to recover from the setback and chase down the target.
Pakistan's performance in New Zealand has been a rollercoaster ride. After arriving in early March for a five-match T20 series, the team faced a rough start, losing the first two matches comprehensively. However, they managed to bounce back in the third T20 in Auckland, securing a 9-wicket victory. Despite this, they ended the T20 series on a low note, suffering defeats in the last two matches, resulting in a 4-1 series loss.
With the ODI series already clinched by New Zealand, the pressure is on Pakistan to salvage some pride in the remaining matches. Should Imam be unable to return, the team has the option to name a replacement player, with Irfan Khan waiting in the wings.
The incident has sparked discussions about player safety and the need for improved protective gear in cricket, especially given the high-speed nature of the game. Fans and analysts alike are calling for more stringent measures to prevent similar injuries in the future.
As the match progresses, all eyes will be on the Pakistani batting lineup to see how they respond to the loss of one of their key players. The cricketing world holds its breath for updates on Imam's condition and the outcome of this crucial match.
With the stakes high and emotions running even higher, this match not only highlights the unpredictable nature of sports but also the camaraderie and concern that exists within the cricketing community. As the players take to the field, the hope is that Imam-ul-Haq will recover swiftly, and Pakistan will find a way to make a comeback.
