Shan Masood Doubtful to Bat in Fourth Innings After Finger Injury in First Test

Pakistan's hopes of chasing down 211 in the opening Test against the West Indies have been dealt a major blow, with former captain Shan Masood emerging as a significant doubt to bat in the fourth innings due to a finger injury.

Masood sustained the injury while fielding on the third day of the first Test in Tarouba after scoring a century in Pakistan's first innings. The left-handed batter did not take the field during the opening hour of the fourth morning as the West Indies continued their innings and was notably absent from his customary No. 3 position during Pakistan's run chase.

Although Masood was initially expected to be available to bat if required, ESPNcricinfo understands that the severity of the finger injury has cast serious doubt over his participation in the chase.

Pakistan's pursuit of 211 got off to a disastrous start, with the visitors slumping to 28 for 3 by lunch. Playing with one specialist batter fewer in the XI, Pakistan could be forced to send bowling all-rounder Aamer Jamal to the crease at No. 6 if Masood remains unavailable.

Masood is expected to bat only if absolutely necessary, with Pakistan likely to attempt to complete the chase without relying on the experienced batter unless the situation becomes critical.

The extent of the injury and its impact on the remainder of the two-match Test series remains uncertain. Pakistan are scheduled to play the second Test beginning on Sunday before embarking on a challenging three-Test tour of England next month.

Pakistan's injury concerns have already mounted after opener Abdullah Fazal was ruled out of both the ongoing West Indies tour and the upcoming England series with a back injury. In response, the selectors recently called up batters Abdullah Shafique and Saud Shakeel as cover, with Shakeel joining the squad earlier than originally planned.

Masood's fitness will now be closely monitored as Pakistan look to complete the chase while also managing the availability of one of their most experienced batters ahead of a demanding international schedule.