Injury scare for Razzaq ahead of South Africa tour

Abdul Razzaq, the Pakistan allrounder, has torn a calf muscle which could result in him missing the start of the South Africa series.

Razzaq picked up the injury during the last ODI against the West Indies in Karachi and though the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is presently unwilling to say how serious it might be, a source close to the board suggested he might not return to full fitness for another three weeks. That would place his position for the first Test in South Africa, due to begin from January 11.

Razzaq confirmed to AFP that he may be out for three weeks and that he is seriously doubtful for the first Test. "It is a calf injury and I will be out for at least three weeks after which I will have an MRI scan. It is very disappointing as a tour to South Africa is always a good one for a player. But I will try and get fit before the third Test."

A source close to the player told Cricinfo the injury was a fairly serious one though he could be back in training soon. "It is difficult to say right now how long it will be but I think it might be three weeks before he returns to full match fitness. He can train but it will take him that much time to recover full fitness."

Razzaq missed the winter series against England last year with an elbow injury and has suffered from a number of problems since he began his career in 1996-97.

The injury continues a trying period for Razzaq, coming as it does soon after a mediocre Test series against the West Indies during which his place in the Test side was questioned on a number of occasions, including by members of the management.