Key Highlights:
April 5, 2025— In a concerning moment for Pakistan cricket fans, opener Imam-ul-Haq was carried off the field after suffering a blow to the helmet during the team’s chase in the third ODI against New Zealand.
The incident occurred in the third over of Pakistan’s innings, when Imam took a single and was accidentally struck on the head by a fielder’s throw aimed at the bowler’s end. The impact appeared serious as Imam immediately collapsed to the ground in discomfort and required medical attention.
Imam Carried Off in Ambulance Buggy
Unfortunate moment for Imam-ul-Haq! The ball struck his helmet and got wedged inside, appearing to hit his left jaw as he attempted a quick run. He’s now off the field for medical attention. Hoping it's nothing serious and he recovers quickly!#PAKvNZ #ImamUlHaq #Cricket pic.twitter.com/iSmtF1bYPl
— Sitarah Anjum Official (@SitarahAnjum) April 5, 2025
- Imam remained down for several minutes before being transported off the field in a buggy ambulance.
- Team management and medical staff will assess the extent of the injury.
- Irfan Khan is in the squad and could be named a concussion replacement if Imam is ruled out of the match.
Imam ul Haq retired hurt#PAKvNZ #PakistanCricket #Cricket pic.twitter.com/ulUYUzrPtx
— Urooj Jawed🇵🇰 (@uroojjawed12) April 5, 2025
Fans took to social media expressing concern for the left-handed opener, who has been a key figure in Pakistan’s top order.
New Zealand Post 264 in Rain-Curtailed Match
Earlier, New Zealand posted a competitive 264/8 in 42 overs after the game was delayed due to a wet outfield. The innings was built on strong performances from debutant Rhys Mariu, middle-order anchor Daryl Mitchell, and a late surge by captain Michael Bracewell.
Key Performers for New Zealand:
- Rhys Mariu (58 off 61) – Impressive debut
- Daryl Mitchell (43 off 53) – Stabilizing middle order
- Michael Bracewell (59 off 40) – Explosive finish with 6 sixes
- Pakistan’s Akif Javed starred with the ball, claiming 4/62 in his spell
The shortened format meant a high run rate was expected, and New Zealand capitalized with boundary-filled death overs.
Pakistan’s ODI Struggles Continue
- Pakistan already lost the 3-match ODI series, trailing 0-2 before the final game.
- The team also faced a 4-1 defeat in the preceding T20I series, despite naming a younger squad for that leg.
- With a full-strength lineup in ODIs, expectations were high, but the Men in Green disappointed in the first two encounters.
What’s Next for Pakistan?
The Imam injury adds to the team’s woes as they chase a 265-run target in a must-win encounter to avoid a whitewash.
- Updates on Imam’s condition are awaited.
- If unfit to return, Irfan Khan may be brought in as concussion substitute under ICC rules.
The Hindustan Herald Is Your Source For The Latest In Business, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Breaking News, And Other News. Please Follow Us On Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, And LinkedIn To Receive Instantaneous Updates. Also Don’t Forget To Subscribe Our Telegram Channel @hindustanherald