Pakistan's Shadab Khan declared fit for World Cup

Pakistan leg-spinner Shadab Khan has been declared fit for the upcoming World Cup slated to be held in England and Wales from May 30.

"His latest test results reflected zero viral load in his blood," the Pakistan Cricket Board announced in a media release on Tuesday.

The leg-spinner was named in Pakistan's 15-member World Cup squad but couldn't fly with the team to England after tests revealed traces of hepatitis C in his blood stream.

On April 26, the PCB had set-up Shadab's appointment with Dr Patrick Kennedy who had put him on medication and advised two weeks of complete rest.

PCB said that Shadab will now leave for London on Thursday.

Ecstatic with the development, Shadab said he was always confident that he would fully recover from the viral infection and will be available for the World Cup.

"It has been difficult to stay away from international cricket and watch Pakistan play. As a professional cricketer, you want to be part of the team's success. Having played in the 2017 Champions Trophy I understand the glamour, flavour and importance of global events," Shadab said.

"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.

Meanwhile, Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur said that Shadab's inclusion balances what the squad for the showpiece event. "I understand it will take Shadab some time to be back at his brilliant best as he has not played cricket for a few weeks, but our first game is on May 31 and he has got two weeks to regain complete form and fitness."

Pakistan will begin their World Cup campaign against West Indies on May 31.

--IANS

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