Video: Pakistan star Imam-ul-Haq suffers facial injury, retires hurt during third ODI against New Zealand

New Zealand, led by Ben Sears' fiery pace, completed a 3-0 sweep over Pakistan with a 43-run win in the third and final ODI at Mount Maunganui on Saturday.

Pakistan's fragile batting crumbled once again, and their chase of 265 was derailed early by a freak injury to opener Imam-ul-Haq, who suffered a concussion after being struck on the jaw by a deflected throw in the third over.

The ball got trapped under Imam’s helmet grill, leaving him visibly disoriented before he was stretchered off the field and ruled out of the match.

PCB confirms Imam's condition is stable

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 replaces Imam

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.

Earlier in the match, Akif Javed delivered a standout performance, claiming four wickets to help restrict New Zealand. Despite his efforts, Pakistan’s batting lineup failed once again to counter the hosts’ disciplined seam bowling and were bowled out for 221 in 40 overs. The match had been reduced to 42 overs due to a delayed start.

New Zealand’s innings was anchored by captain Michael Bracewell (59) and young batter Rhys Mariu (58), who built a solid platform on a tricky surface, helping the hosts post a competitive total of 264/8.

Tour Ends on sour note for Pakistan

New Zealand’s dominance extended beyond the ODIs—they also won the T20I series 4-1. Pakistan struggled throughout the tour to adapt to the bounce and movement in New Zealand’s conditions, with poor shot selection and a lack of application repeatedly proving costly.