In an unfortunate development, Islamabad United fast bowler Mir Hamza Sajjad has been hospitalised after sustaining a blow on the back of his head. During a net session at the Hanif Mohammad High-Performance Centre, the 24-year-old was hit from behind and lost consciousness for a brief period.
Islamabad United suffers head blow
According to Geo Super, New Zealand batter Mark Chapman played a false shot that caused Sajjad to collapse. The incident halted the practice, which was later suspended, with the fast bowler taken to the Aga Khan Hospital, which is about 3-4 kilometres away from the training facility, for medical evaluation.
Islamabad confirmed that Sajjad has regained consciousness and is vital and hemodynamically stable. As a precautionary measure, the fast bowler will undergo a computed tomography (CT).
“During a training session earlier today, Islamabad United’s Mir Hamza Sajjad sustained a blow to the head. The incident occurred during the session, following which the team immediately suspended training. He was attended to by on-ground medical staff and has since been shifted to the Aga Khan Hospital for further evaluation. Dr. Ovais, along with paramedics, is overseeing his care.
Mir Hamza Sajjad is conscious and currently vitally and hemodynamically stable. A CT scan will be conducted shortly as a precautionary measure. The entire Islamabad United squad is praying for Hamza’s speedy recovery and stands firmly by him at this time. Further updates will be shared as appropriate,” Islamabad said in a statement.
This was Sajjad’s first stint in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). He was picked up at the auction for PKR 70 lakh but has yet to make his debut in the league. As things stand, it’s uncertain whether he’ll be medically cleared to be part of Islamabad’s squad for the upcoming fixture against the Lahore Qalandars on April 9.
Ben Stokes’ freak injury during practice
In February, England Test captain Ben Stokes had also sustained a blow on his face during practice. The all-rounder was standing beside the nets when a ball struck by a fellow Durham teammate hit him. Stokes had to undergo surgery on the right side of his face, just under his right eye. Stokes hasn’t played a match since and won’t return to the field until May.
Durham’s head coach, Ryan Campbell, had called Stokes lucky, since he could’ve lost his right eye if the ball had hit him just a couple of inches away. One hopes Sajjad returns to the field soon, fit and fine.
