Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan has fully recovered from a viral infection and is ready to join the Pakistan team, for the upcoming International Cricket Council (ICC) 2019 World Cup. Shadab on Thursday departed for London where we will consult a senior gastroenterologist and hepatologist before joining the country’s squad. Shadab was declared fit for the World Cup after his latest test results reflected zero viral load in his blood. The leg-spinner is scheduled to consult Dr Patrick Kennedy on Friday (today) before joining the team in Bristol on Monday (May 20).
While talking to media in Rawalpindi, Shadab was hopeful that experience of playing in England for the last few years would help him in performing during the mega event. “Since we are going to England for last three years, it is not very difficult to acclimatise to the conditions. All I have to do is get my rhythm back,” said Shadab. “I have already played in a competitive tournament, 2017 Champions trophy, which we won. Even though we have lost few games, I know how to adapt myself in a big tournament.”
While speaking about Pakistan’s poor performance in the ongoing One-day International (ODI) series against England, the 20-year-old said that he is confident that Men in Green will bounce back. “Our team has 100% skills to do well in the World Cup. They are playing good cricket overall,” he said. “The bowlers are currently not in rhythm, but once they start clicking, we will start winning the games.” He added: “When you are missing four key players, it becomes very difficult. However, there is a difference between pressure for a series and the World Cup, so I am optimistic about our chances in the mega event and will try our best to win the World Cup.”
Shadab also appreciated his friends and teammates for providing him support when he found out about the virus in his blood, which kept him away from cricket. “When you suddenly get to know that you have a virus in your blood, naturally I got frustrated but my team-mates and friends have been very supportive,” he said. “However, I was hopeful of recovering since the viral infection was found in its initial stages. I am delighted to know that the blood tests are negative and I can now return to competitive cricket. I was always very confident that I would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup,” said the leg spinner.
Coach Mickey Arthur expressed his delight over the development and said that he is looking forward to welcoming Shadab back in the squad. “Shadab is one of the finest of his generation and is an influential figure in the team. His presence in the dressing room and on the field of play keeps the side geared up and motivated,” said the coach. “Shadab’s inclusion also balances what is a young but extremely talented squad.” Arthur said that Shadab had got two weeks to regain complete form and fitness. “He is a brave lad and the way he has fought back to regain fitness is a testament to his attitude and approach, which gives us the encouragement that he will be hopefully available for selection for our World Cup opener,” he said. Shadab was named in the original 15-player World Cup 2019 squad on April 18. However, he was withdrawn from the series against England after blood tests revealed a virus that required treatment and rest for at least four weeks.