The Pakistan cricket team may encounter a potential setback leading up to the five-match T20I series against New Zealand, as all-rounder Shadab Khan is doubtful to participate due to a foot injury sustained during the National T20 Cup.

The 25-year-old has been out of action since the injury, casting doubt on his availability for the upcoming series.

With the final squad for the New Zealand T20I series set to be announced on December 19, Shadab is in a race against time to regain fitness for the series. The T20I series against New Zealand is slated to kick off on January 12.

The selection committee, headed by Wahab Riaz, will evaluate performances in the recently-concluded National T20 Cup 2023-24 in Karachi. The training camp for T20I probables is scheduled to commence at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore on December 25.

Pakistan tour of New Zealand:

January 12: New Zealand vs Pakistan – First T20I in Auckland
January 14: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Second T20I in Hamilton
January 17: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Third T20I in Dunedin
January 19: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Fourth T20I in Christchurch
January 21: New Zealand vs Pakistan – Fifth T20I in Christchurch