Mohammad Rizwan and Saud Shakeel hit the nets again on 5 July 2026 as medical checks cleared lingering fitness worries, giving Pakistan a fresh burst of batting depth before the next series.
What prompted the return?
Both players had been sidelined after minor niggles surfaced during the recent tri‑series. Rizwan, Pakistan’s wicket‑keeper‑batsman, reported a strained hamstring on 28 June, while Shakeel dealt with a lingering shoulder strain. After intensive physiotherapy and a series of low‑impact drills, the team’s medical staff gave the green light on 4 July, allowing the duo to re‑join the practice nets the following day.
How will this affect Pakistan’s batting options?
Rizwan, who averages 45.12 in ODIs, brings stability at the top of the order, while Shakeel, a promising middle‑order talent, has been knocking 38.5 in recent domestic outings. Their simultaneous comeback means the selectors can field a more balanced line‑up, especially with the upcoming England tour looming. Coach Saqlain Mushtaq noted that having both players back “adds flexibility and depth, especially in the middle overs where runs often stall.”
What does the training session look like?
The net session focused on scenario‑based drills. Rizwan worked on his footwork against spin, taking 12 deliveries from Shadab Khan and converting eight into runs. Shakeel faced a mix of pace and swing, handling 15 balls from Mohammad Wasim Jr., with a strike rate of 133. The intensity was calibrated to avoid over‑exertion, and both players completed a light fielding circuit afterwards.
What’s next for the pair?
With the nets back in action, the next step is a full‑scale practice match scheduled for 9 July 2026. Rizwan is expected to keep wicket and open, while Shakeel will slot into the No 4 position. Their performances will be closely monitored by the selection panel ahead of the limited‑overs series against England, set to begin on 15 July.
Why does this matter for Pakistan’s campaign?
Having two in‑form batsmen ready for the England tour could prove decisive. Pakistan struggled to post competitive totals in the last two ODIs, falling short by an average of 27 runs. Rizwan’s return restores a proven run‑scorer, and Shakeel’s aggressive style offers a counter‑balance. If both maintain fitness, Pakistan’s batting average could climb by at least 5 runs per innings, according to analyst Haroon Rasheed.
How are fans reacting?
Social media lit up with praise for the quick recovery. Hashtag #RizwanBack trended on Twitter, with fans sharing clips of his crisp glovework during the session. Shakeel’s fans echoed the sentiment, posting the caption “Back where we need you!” alongside a short video of his powerful pull shot.
The renewed net activity signals a positive shift in Pakistan’s preparation, and with the England series on the horizon, Rizwan and Shakeel’s fitness could be the catalyst the side needs to turn the tide.