Lahore, October 31,2026: Pakistan all-rounder Shadab Khan has been ruled out of Saturday’s ODI tri-series final against Sri Lanka at Gaddafi Stadium due to illness following a blow to the head during the tournament.
According to a statement issued by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Shadab was declared unavailable for the final on medical grounds after being struck by a bouncer during Pakistan’s fifth match of the tri-series against Sri Lanka.
The PCB said Shadab had been ruled out of the final following the incident, which required a medical assessment.
Pakistan captain Shaheen Afridi confirmed Shadab’s absence at the toss after electing to field first. All-rounder Faheem Ashraf replaced him in the playing XI.
Shadab had been among Pakistan’s standout performers in the tournament, particularly with his match-winning century against England in the fourth ODI.
He smashed 113 runs off 96 deliveries, including 13 fours and five sixes, to help Pakistan secure a thrilling one-wicket victory while chasing a target of 242 runs.
Alongside Haris Rauf, Shadab staged a remarkable recovery, adding an unbeaten 84-run partnership after Pakistan had slumped to 154-9. Their crucial stand helped Pakistan seal their place in the final.
Meanwhile, Sri Lanka also made one change to their playing XI, bringing in Maheesh Theekshana in place of Eshan Malinga.
