“PCB will now consult a specialist in Australia after which a final management protocol will be established for the player,” a statement said. “He will then return to the NCA in Lahore where he will continue his injury management and rehabilitation.”
His absence adds to Pakistan’s growing bowling injury woes. Naseem Shah was ruled out of the tour with a long-term injury, while legspinner Abrar Ahmed missed the first Test with discomfort in his right leg. He is a significant doubt for the whole tour.
His replacement Noman Ali, the left-arm spinner, sustained a finger injury according to head coach Mohammad Hafeez. Sajid Khan, flown in as cover, arrived too late to play the first Test, and is expected to take his place in the second with Pakistan seeking to play a specialist spinner.
In terms of a like-for-like replacement for Shahzad, Pakistan have Hasan Ali and Mohammad Wasim Jnr in the squad.
Pakistan will play a two-day game against a Victorian XI side at the Junction Oval starting December 22. It will not be a first-class game, allowing Pakistan to give a run to as many players as they need.
Pakistan are 1-0 down in the series after being beaten by 360 runs in Perth. They have not won a Test in Australia since 1995.