Pakistan's Muhammad Haris' 'Take my shoulder' tweet for injured Naseem Shah goes viral

Pakistan has announced its 18-member squad for the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, while anticipation was rife amongst cricket enthusiasts for the inclusion of young pacer Naseem Shah, an unfortunate shoulder injury has dashed those hopes. The injury, which was sustained while fielding during the recently concluded Asia Cup 2023, has now officially ruled him out of the marquee event.

Hasan Ali, known for his fiery pace capabilities, has been named as Naseem's replacement, providing a silver lining for the Pakistani team. The 20-year-old, took to his 'X' handle to express his sentiments regarding this unexpected turn of events. In an emotional post, he shared, 

“With a heavy heart, I'm sharing that I will not be part of this amazing team that will be representing our beloved country. While I'm disappointed, I believe everything is in Allah's hands. InshahAllah will be on the field very soon."

With a heavy heart, I'm sharing that I will not be part of this amazing team that will be representing our beloved country. While I'm disappointed, I believe everything is in Allah's hands. InshahAllah will be on the field very soon.

Thank you to all my fans for the prayers!

— Naseem Shah (@iNaseemShah) September 22, 2023

Muhammad Haris commented on Naseem Shah's Tweet with a message of support: 

Stay strong dost ❤️ pic.twitter.com/SWSKscGpdq

— Muhammad Haris (@iamharis63) September 22, 2023

Unfortunate turn of events for young Naseem 

The unfortunate injury to the Pakistan speedster occurred during Men in Green's Asia Cup Super-Four clash against arch-rivals India in Colombo, where he had to leave the field after being unable to complete his 10th over. Following a medical evaluation, it has been recommended that he should undergo surgery, which will sideline him for an estimated four months.

Pakistan's pace attack will now be spearheaded by the talented Shaheen Shah Afridi, with support from the likes of Haris Rauf, Mohammed Waseem, and Hasan Ali, in what remains a largely unchanged squad under the leadership of captain Babar Azam. Reacting to Naseem's injury, Pakistan's Chief Selector, Inzamam Ul Haq, expressed his disappointment, saying,

"Naseem Shah is a key bowler for us, but he's injured, Unfortunately, the report we have from our doctors, we hear Naseem will be out for a longer time than just the World Cup. At this time, he was the world's best bowler in my view. It's a loss for Pakistan. We hope he's fit soon.”