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Injured Pakistan keeper Haider ruled out of third test

LONDON - Pakistan were dealt a blow on Monday when wicketkeeper Zulqarnain Haider was ruled out of Wednesday’s third test against England at The Oval with a finger injury.

Haider was one of Pakistan’s few successes in last week’s nine-wicket defeat in Birmingham after he made a fighting 88 — the highest score in the match — in the second innings on his test debut.

“The physiotherapist examined me and has given me 10 days rest time,” the 24-year-old told the Geo Super sports channel.

“I have pain in the chipped finger on my right hand and a specialist will examine me this week to decide if I can still be fit for the fourth test (starting on Aug. 26 at Lord’s).”

Haider suffered a hairline fracture which got worse after the second test.

Vice-captain Kamran Akmal will now return to the team after being dropped for the Birmingham game.

Pakistan, who trail the four-match series 2-0, are also expected to recall former captain Mohammad Yousuf and Yasir Hameed to bolster the batting.