Imam Ul Haq Injury Scare – Head Injury During Pakistan vs New Zealand 3rd ODI

Imam Ul Haq Suffers Scary Head Injury in 3rd ODI vs New Zealand – Rushed Off Field

Imam Ul Haq Injury Halts ODI Drama as Pakistan Lose Series to New Zealand

Cricket, for all its grace and flair, sometimes throws up moments that make fans hold their breath and not for the right reasons. One such instance unfolded during the third ODI between Pakistan and New Zealand, when Imam ul Haq suffered a serious blow to the head, leading to him being rushed off the ground in an ambulance.

The incident occurred in the third over of Pakistan’s innings while chasing New Zealand’s target of 265. Imam, known for his calmness and composure at the top, had just nudged the ball for a quick single. As he completed the run, a throw aimed at the bowler’s end took a wicked bounce and struck him on the helmet. The reaction was immediate. Imam collapsed to the ground in visible discomfort, and within moments, a buggy ambulance made its way onto the field.

The sight of Imam ul Haq injury left fans and teammates in a state of shock. As per ICC protocols, Pakistan were given the option to substitute Imam, should he be unable to return. With Irfan Khan available in the squad, team management kept their options open, but it was evident that the psychological impact of the injury was heavy on the dressing room.

Imam ul Haq retired hurt#PAKvNZ #PakistanCricket #Cricket pic.twitter.com/ulUYUzrPtx

— Urooj Jawed???????? (@uroojjawed12) April 5, 2025

Pakistan’s Injury Woes Add to Series Misery

Pakistan entered the ODI series already on the back foot, having lost the T20I leg 4-1. Expectations were high for the ODIs with a full-strength side, and after two disappointing defeats, fans hoped for redemption in the third and final match. But Imam ul Haq’s head injury disrupted the team’s plans early in the chase and added to their growing list of issues.

With rain delaying the match, it was shortened to 42 overs per side. Pakistan’s bowlers did a decent job overall, but couldn’t fully contain the Blackcaps. Debutant Rhys Mariu stood out with a fluent 58 at the top, showcasing composure and confidence rare for a debut. The middle order chipped in, but it was Michael Bracewell’s 59 off 40 that truly took the game away. His late-innings power hitting helped New Zealand reach a competitive total of 265 on a tricky surface.

Chasing under lights with the pressure of a lost series already weighing heavy, Pakistan’s innings never quite took off. And when Imam ul Haq was struck on the head, momentum and perhaps morale slipped further away.

Medical Update and Player Safety: Where Does It Stand Now

After being helped off the field, Imam was taken for medical scans. While official word is still awaited, early signs suggest a precautionary removal rather than a severe concussion. However, in today’s game, especially after several past incidents involving head injuries, no chances are taken. Imam’s helmet absorbed the bulk of the blow, but his fall and immediate discomfort warranted immediate medical attention.

Player safety has become non-negotiable in modern cricket. Whether it’s protocols for concussion, availability of substitutes, or improved protective gear, the game has come a long way since the tragic passing of Phillip Hughes in 2014. Imam ul Haq injury will now be evaluated under those same updated frameworks, ensuring there’s no rush for him to return until he’s fully fit.

Pakistan's ODI Form Under Fire

Even before Imam ul Haq’s blow to the head, questions were swirling around Pakistan’s ODI approach. For a squad that included many senior players and experienced internationals, losing the first two matches in the series raised significant concerns.

The batting unit, in particular, looked disjointed and lacked spark. While there were individual performances like Naman Dhir and Babar Azam showing glimpses of form collectively, the batting never threatened New Zealand. The absence of partnerships and failure to accelerate in middle overs have been persistent issues.

And now, with the Imam ul Haq injury creating another potential hole at the top of the order, the selectors and management face more questions than answers. With crucial international assignments on the horizon, including the Champions Trophy 2025 build-up, Pakistan will need to fix both form and mindset.

New Zealand’s Bright Future: Rhys Mariu Impresses

On the other side of the contest, New Zealand’s ODI team looked far more organized and experimental. Rhys Mariu’s assured half-century on debut is a positive sign for the Kiwis, especially with senior players like Kane Williamson and Devon Conway dealing with fitness concerns.

Bracewell’s finishing act only added polish to a New Zealand performance that has combined youth and experience beautifully this series. In contrast, Pakistan’s full-strength unit felt surprisingly undercooked and uninspired.

Social Media Reacts to Imam’s Injury

The cricketing world came together to express concern and support for Imam. From fans to former cricketers, messages of solidarity poured in across platforms. The image of Imam on the ground, surrounded by medical staff, was a somber reminder of cricket’s unpredictable nature. Thankfully, signs point to a non-severe outcome, but the visuals were enough to send a shiver down the spine of fans worldwide.