Mohammad Nawaz ruled out of Champions Cup

Pakistan’s spin-bowling all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has been ruled out of the National Champions Cup after suffering a fracture to the middle finger of his right hand.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed the injury on Friday, revealing that Nawaz is expected to remain away from competitive cricket for at least three weeks.

Nawaz sustained the injury while fielding during the National Champions Cup match between Pakistan Gold and Pakistan Blues at Multan Cricket Stadium on August 12. Despite hurting his finger, the experienced all-rounder remarkably completed his full 10-over spell.

His efforts, however, could not prevent Pakistan Gold from suffering a six-wicket defeat against Pakistan Blues.

Medical scans conducted on August 13 confirmed the fracture, forcing Nawaz to withdraw from the ongoing domestic competition. The setback comes at an inconvenient time for the left-arm spinner, who has remained an important part of Pakistan’s experienced white-ball setup.

According to the PCB, Nawaz will report to the board’s Sports and Exercise Medicine Department after two weeks. He will then undergo rehabilitation under medical supervision, with his recovery closely monitored before a decision is made regarding his return to competitive cricket.

The medical team will assess his progress throughout the rehabilitation process, while the priority will be ensuring that the finger has recovered sufficiently before he resumes full cricketing activities.

Nawaz’s absence is a blow to his team’s campaign in the Champions Cup, where the tournament provides Pakistan’s established players and emerging talent with valuable competitive exposure.

For Nawaz, the immediate focus will now shift from domestic cricket to recovery. The three-week initial timeline could change depending on how he responds to treatment and rehabilitation.

The PCB is expected to provide further updates on his fitness as he progresses through the recovery programme.