Pakistan lose Riaz for Australia Tests

ABU DHABI, Oct 13 (AFP): Pakistan continued to lose key players through injury in their series against Australia with paceman Wahab Riaz Monday ruled out of the two Test series.

The 29-year-old left-arm paceman hurt his knee during the second one-day international against Australia in Dubai on Friday and after an MRI has been advised two to three weeks rest.

"On October 10, 2014, Wahab Riaz was unable to complete his second over during the second ODI match against Australia. Wahab felt that his foot got stuck at the crease and he hyperextended his left knee. He was unable to continue in the match.

"The MRI report reveals significant bone damage and damage to the cartilage under the knee cap and suspicion of a tear. The joint is also mildly swollen," said a Pakistan Cricket Board release.

"Riaz has been advised to undergo a two-three week rest/rehab period before considering a return to impact and bowling," said the release.

Riaz missed the third and final one-day clash in Abu Dhabi and returned home.

Pakistan were routed 3-0 in the one-day series. They now play a two-match Test series against the same opponents starting in Dubai from October 22.

Before Riaz's injury Pakistan had lost allrounder Mohammad Hafeez (hand injury) and paceman Junaid Khan (knee injury).

The PCB said Hafeez was recovering fast.

"Stitches on Hafez's wound have been removed and he has been advised to start batting from Monday with the help of support," said the PCB.

Khan's injury will be examined on Tuesday but he is in danger of being ruled out for a month.

PCB said it has delayed the announcement of the Test squad until a four-day practice match between Pakistan 'A' and Australia starting on Wednesday.