During Pakistan’s ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023 match against South Africa, all-rounder Shadab Khan had to leave the field due to an injury in the second innings. Usama Mir stepped in as Shadab’s replacement at Chepauk Stadium in Chennai on Friday, October 27.

The substitution was necessitated because Shadab got injured while fielding during South Africa’s chase, just on the second legal delivery. He sprinted in from mid-on to field a shot from Temba Bavuma and dislodged the stumps at the bowler’s end. However, Shadab lost his balance during the action and fell awkwardly, with signs of possibly hitting his head on the ground.

After lying on the ground for several minutes and receiving medical attention, a stretcher was brought in to assist Shadab off the field, even though he managed to walk off on his own. Initially, it was believed that Shadab had sustained a shoulder injury due to the fall, but instant video replays provided a closer examination of the incident. Surprisingly, the replays indicated that the injury was not to his shoulder, but rather a concussion.

Usama Mir Eligible To Bowl Full Ten-Over quota

Shadab returned to the field a short while later but had not yet bowled before being ruled unfit to continue playing. He was replaced by Mir in the 15th over of South Africa’s chase. Under the concussion substitution rules, Mir would be eligible to bowl a full ten-over quota.

The PCB Media official Twitter handle posted, “Pakistan have taken a concussion substitute for Shadab Khan in the ongoing match against South Africa. Usama Mir will replace Shadab. Shadab hit his head while fielding. He briefly took the field, but after a thorough assessment, the Pakistan team medical panel decided to replace him.  The substitute request was approved by the match referee.”

This decision made Usama Mir the first concussion substitute to be utilised in a World Cup match. In his very first over, Mir made an immediate impact by taking the wicket of South Africa’s number three batsman, Rassie Van der Dussen.