Injured Mohammad Nawaz Ruled Out of National Champions Cup Remainder

1 Lahore: Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Nawaz has been ruled out of the remainder of the National Champions Cup 2026 after suffering a fracture to his right middle finger, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Friday. The 32-year-old was representing Pakistan Gold in the four-team domestic tournament when he sustained the injury while fielding against Pakistan Blues on August 12 at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Although Nawaz suffered the injury during the match, he completed his full quota of 10 overs. He was subsequently sent for medical scans the following day, with the results confirming a fracture. The injury is expected to keep the left-arm spinner out of action for a minimum of three weeks. Mohammad Nawaz Suffers Finger Fracture According to the PCB, Nawaz injured his right middle finger while fielding during Pakistan Gold's match against Pakistan Blues on August 12. Despite the injury, the all-rounder completed his 10-over spell before undergoing further medical assessment. The scans conducted on Thursday, August 13, confirmed the fracture and ruled him out of the remaining matches of the competition. In a statement, the PCB confirmed that Nawaz would be unavailable for at least three weeks as he begins his recovery from the injury. Pakistan Blues went on to win the match by six wickets at the Multan Cricket Stadium. Babar Azam injured ahead of England Test series, advised to rest Nawaz to Begin Rehabilitation Process The PCB said Nawaz will report to its Sports and Exercise Medicine Department after two weeks. He will then begin conditioning work and progress through the required Return-to-Play (RTP) protocols under the supervision of the board's medical team. The RTP process is designed to help injured players gradually regain fitness and safely return to competitive cricket. Nawaz's progress will therefore be monitored by the PCB medical staff before he is cleared to resume full cricketing activities. His absence is a setback for Pakistan Gold, particularly because he was included in the squad as an experienced all-rounder capable of contributing with both bat and ball. Nawaz's Only Appearance in the Tournament The August 12 match against Pakistan Blues was Nawaz's only appearance in the National Champions Cup 2026. His contribution with the bat was limited to eight runs, while he failed to take a wicket with the ball. He conceded 44 runs from his 10 overs during the match. Pakistan Gold ultimately lost the contest by six wickets, and Nawaz's injury now means he will miss the remainder of the four-team competition. The PCB has not indicated that Nawaz will require surgery, while his return to cricket will depend on his recovery and successful completion of the medical board's Return-to-Play protocols.