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Pakistan make first concussion sub in Cricket World Cup history

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Spin-bowling all-rounder Shadab Khan suffered an injury inside the first over of South Africa’s second innings at the Chidambaram Stadium and was unable to continue in the game.

And his replacement Usama Mir took a wicket in his very first over.

Usama strikes in first over as concussion substitute | CWC23

Usama Mir broke a crucial third-wicket stand between Rassie van der Dussen and Aiden Markram when he had the former trapped leg before.

Shadab attempted a run-out, swooping in the circle and producing a diving throw that skimmed past the stumps.

But the athleticism of the move had a knock-on effect on Shadab, who hit the ground hard onto his right shoulder, with his head whipping down towards the rock-hard Chennai square.

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It was unclear from replays whether Shadab’s head had struck the surface or whether he had suffered whiplash from the intense motion following his shoulder’s impact with the ground.

But it was immediately clear that the 25-year-old was suffering from the incident, as he lay completely still while waiting for medical attention.

The Pakistan all-rounder left the field of play after initial tests and was later ruled unable to continue.

The concussion substitution rule meant that Usama Mir was allowed to take his place as an active member of the bowling attack.

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The change is the first time that a concussion substitute has ever been used at an ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.

Shadab's injury had occurred so early in the innings that he was yet to bowl a single delivery. And Usama Mir made an immediate impact upon his introduction, dismissing Rassie van der Dussen for 21 in his very first over.

Both bowlers are leg-break spinners, with Shadab having the better average and economy rate over the course of his ODI career.

Pakistan vs South Africa - LeaguePakistanShadab Khan 10/04/1998Usama Mir 12/23/1995ICC Cricket World Cup, 2023Cricket World CupMen's News