Pakistan’s cricket team faces a setback ahead of their second ODI against New Zealand, scheduled for Wednesday, as opening batsman Usman Khan has been ruled out due to a hamstring injury, according to sports website espncricinfo.

The opener sustained the injury while fielding in the first match of the series on March 29. An MRI scan confirmed a low-grade tear, sidelining him from the Hamilton fixture.

Usman made his ODI debut in the opening match, scoring a promising 39 off 33 balls and forging an 83-run opening stand with Abdullah Shafique. However, his efforts were in vain as Pakistan failed to chase down New Zealand’s imposing 345-run target. The 2024 debutant has also featured in 19 T20s for Pakistan.

In Usman’s absence, Pakistan have the option of pairing Abdullah Shafique with Imam-ul-Haq at the top. Alternatively, the team could promote skipper Babar Azam to open, a role he took on during the Champions Trophy, and bring in an allrounder like Khushdil Shah or Faheem Ashraf. Babar, who batted at No. 3 in the first ODI, scored a solid 78 off 83 balls.

Pakistan suffered a 73-run defeat in the series opener at McLean Park, marking their fifth loss in six completed ODIs in 2025.

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