Shabbir sent home with injury

Pakistan have received a blow to their one-day campaign against South Africa with the news that fast bowler Shabbir Ahmed has flown home after sustaining a groin injury.

Ahmed’s injury adds to the Pakistan’s bowling worries ahead of the World Cup in march with Shoaib Akhtar, Umar Gul and Shoaib Malik also on the sidelines.

Pakistan’s team doctors are estimating the recovery period will be up to three weeks.

Shabbir’s recent recall to the Pakistani one-day side caused much surprise earlier this month after his 12 month ban for having an illegal bowling action was completed.

The 30 year old will now face a race against time to be fit for the World Cup, starting in just five weeks in the Caribbean.