The beleaguered Pakistan team suffered a fresh jolt on Tuesday when experienced all-rounder Abdul Razzaq was ruled out of the cricket World Cup after he fractured his knee during the nets in Lahore.
The Pakistan Cricket Board announced that Razzaq would require up to four weeks' rest and he would be replaced by Azhar Mahmood in the 15-member Caribbean-bound squad.
"Razzaq was hit on the knee during a nets session which left a fracture," media manager Pervez Mir said.
"Razzaq is out and Azhar Mahmood comes in his place. It is something we were not expecting but these things happen," he added.
The veteran of 229 one-day internationals was to appear in his third World Cup but has been struggling in recent days for form and fitness.
He also missed the recent Test series in South Africa due to an elbow injury.
"I am simply devastated. One moment we are practicing and planning for the big tournament and next moment doctors tell me I am out of it," Razzaq said.
"It is hugely disappointing for me to go out this way," added the 27-year-old player.
Pakistan is already struggling with fitness and other issues concerning fast bowlers Shoaib Akhtar and Mohammad Asif, their pace spearheads.
Both are presently in London to undergo medical treatment for knee and elbow injuries but sources have confirmed their issue is related to them not being able to clear dope tests for the tournament and they are unlikely to play in the event.
However, there was some good news for Pakistan when young fast bowler Umar Gul was cleared after being out of action for two months with an ankle injury.
"Gul has passed fitness tests and will be going to the World Cup," Mir said.
