The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that Imam-ul-Haq was in stable condition, had not suffered any serious injury, and had been cleared for air travel. However, doctors recommended a two-week rest period, and he will continue to be monitored during recovery.

“Imam sustained a minor facial injury after being struck by a throw that deflected off his helmet,” the PCB said in a statement. “He was taken to a local hospital for further assessment as a precaution.”

Usman Khan was brought in as the concussion substitute but managed only 12 runs before being dismissed by New Zealand pacer Mohammad Abbas.

This marked Pakistan’s second concussion-related substitution in the ODI series, following Haris Rauf’s injury and replacement in the previous game.