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In a major development, Pakistan wicket keeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan and middle-order batter Shoaib Malik are down with the flu and the duo could miss the team's semifinal clash against Australia in the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup as a result.
According to a report in Pakistan's Geo News, both Malik and Rizwan did not turn up for practice on the eve of semifinal due to flu. Both of them have tested negative for Covid-19, however, the doctor has advised them rest.
Both Rizwan and Malik have performed well during Pakistan's unbeaten campaign in the T20 WC and losing either of them could be a big blow for the tournament favorites. Opener Rizwan is in terrific form and has scored 214 runs in five games. Meanwhile, Malik made 50 off just 18 balls against Scotland, smashing the joint fastest fifty of this World Cup with KL Rahul.
In the latest update, the duo feel better than yesterday. PCB medical staff will assess them on Thursday afternoon. A final call on their participation is likely to be taken following a medical check up .
Pakistan are the only unbeaten side so far in the ongoing tournament, having won all five games. Pakistan defeated India, New Zealand, Afghanistan, Scotland and Namibia to become the first team to reach the semis. Meanwhile, Australia have only lost just one match in the tournament, which came against England.