Shan Masood Ruled Out of Second Test Against West Indies with Finger Fracture

Pakistan have suffered a major setback ahead of the second Test against the West Indies, with senior batter Shan Masood ruled out after sustaining a fracture to his left index finger during the opening Test in Tarouba.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed Masood's unavailability on Thursday following a scan and clinical assessment conducted by the team's medical panel. The left-handed batter picked up the injury while facing West Indies pacer Jayden Seales in Pakistan's first innings. Despite the setback, Masood displayed remarkable determination by continuing his innings and registering his seventh Test century, although Pakistan eventually lost the match by 90 runs at the Brian Lara Cricket Academy.

Masood's injury also affected his involvement later in the match. He did not take the field on the fourth morning and returned to bat at No. 8 during Pakistan's chase of 211. Battling discomfort and limited use of his left hand, he managed only three runs before being caught at point while attempting a drive.

The PCB has not provided a definite timeline for Masood's return, raising concerns over his availability for Pakistan's upcoming Test series in England. According to the board, his participation in the first Test at Leeds, beginning on August 19, will depend on his recovery and clinical progress. Despite being ruled out of the second Test in the Caribbean, Masood will remain with the squad and travel with the team to England.

Pakistan have several options to replace Masood in the playing XI for the second Test. Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel were added to the squad after Abdullah Fazal was ruled out of the series with a lower-back injury ahead of the first Test. The squad also includes uncapped middle-order batter Awais Zafar, giving the team multiple choices as they look to level the series against the West Indies.