Shadab Khan declared fit for Cricket World Cup

Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan was declared fit for the upcoming ICC Cricket World Cup 2019 on Tuesday.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced that Khan's test results reflected zero viral load in his blood.

The leg-spinner will leave for England on May 16 and he will consult Dr. Patrick Kennedy on May 17. before joining the Pakistan team in Bristol on May 20.

"I am delighted to know that the blood tests are negative and I can now return to competitive cricket. I was always very confident that I would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup," Khan said in an official statement released by the PCB.

"Having played and won the ICC Champions Trophy 2017, I understand the importance, flavour, and glamour of global events and what success in such events mean to the players and the public. I am looking forward to featuring in the World Cup and will leave no stone unturned in helping Pakistan put up a strong show," he added.

However, Khan's participation in the warm-up matches before the World Cup is subjected to his fitness and the team management's decision.

"It is fabulous news and on behalf of the Pakistan cricket team, I look forward to welcoming Shadab back in the squad. Shadab is one of the finest of his generation and is an influential figure in the team. His presence in the dressing room and on the field of play keeps the side geared up and motivated," Pakistan head coach Arthur said in an official statement.

Pakistan is currently playing against England in a five-match ODI series. The team has lost the second and third ODI against England, falling 0-2 behind in the series.

The team will take on Afghanistan and Bangladesh in the warm-up matches before the World Cup on May 24 and 26. Pakistan takes on West Indies in their opening match of the World Cup on May 31 at Trent Bridge.