Pakistan women suffered a major blow ahead of the T20I series against Australia and the T20 World Cup as pacer Diana Baig has been ruled out from both events.

The Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed the development in a press release stating that the pacer fractured here index finger of the right hand.

“Right-handed batter Sadaf Shamas, who is part of the reserves for Australia T20I series and ICC Women’s T20 World Cup will replace Diana,” it added.

The pacer sustained the injury during the third ODI against Australia on Saturday, when she tried to complete a return catch.

“Diana was taken to the local hospital where X-rays confirmed the fracture,” said the team manager. Diana has been advised four weeks’ rest by the PCB Medical panel.