“He’s gone off to hospital to see a hand specialist”

Image courtesy of: ESPNcricinfo

On the very same day he was called up to represent England during the upcoming tour of the United Arab Emirates, where they will play Pakistan, Surrey all-rounder Zafar Ansari dislocated his left thumb while fielding against Lancashire at Old Trafford.

Ansari’s injury occurred when he dropped a difficult catch that was hit to him at cover by Lancashire batsman Ashwell Prince. Immediately after dropping the catch, Ansari gestured towards the dressing room and was later sent to the hospital.

“It didn’t look good. He’s gone off to hospital to see a hand specialist. It’s his left thumb and he was in quite a bit of pain,” Surrey director of cricket Alec Stewart said. “Fingers crossed for him but seeing him in the dressing room it’s certainly a concern.

“Obviously with the announcement this morning he was in a great place. He’s earned that right, and he offers England something they haven’t got. If he gets in that environment I think England will be very impressed with him. Let’s not speculate now. Hopefully we’ll get some news sooner rather than later.”

With England set to depart for the United Arab Emirates on September 30, Ansari is in a race against time to be fit. However, it is still unclear how serious his injury is as Stewart said that it would be “reviewed over the next couple of days”.