Pakistan spinner Noman Ali was ruled out of the ongoing Test series against Australia due to acute appendicitis.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the development on Saturday ahead of the second Test, which begins in Melbourne on December 26.
“Noman Ali complained of sudden and severe abdominal pain yesterday, leading to examinations and scans in emergency that confirmed a diagnosis of acute appendicitis,” the PCB said in a press release.
“On Surgeon advice; he underwent Laparoscopic Appendectomy today in the morning.
“Post-surgery he is stable and doing fine. He will be discharged later this afternoon.”
It must be noted that Noman didn’t play the first Test of the series, which Pakistan lost by 360 runs.
After being set a target of 450 in the fourth innings, Pakistan folded for a measly 89 in 30.2 overs. The visitors were dismissed for 271 in their first innings in reply to Australia's 487.
Earlier, pacer Khurram Shazad was also ruled out of the remaining Tests of the series due to a stress fracture in his left 10th rib, as well as an abdominal muscle tear.
“Shahzad complained of discomfort in his left side during the first Test. PCB will now consult a specialist in Australia after which a final management protocol will be established for the player,” the PCB said.
“He will then return to the NCA in Lahore where he will continue his injury management and rehabilitation,” it added.
The right-armer made his debut during the Perth Test and claimed five wickets during the match.
