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Islamabad United Fast Bowler Mir Hamza Sajjad Recovers After Concussion Scare

Elias Chawla · · 3 min read

A Frightening Training Ground Incident

The cricket fraternity has expressed concern following reports that Islamabad United fast bowler Mir Hamza Sajjad suffered a concussion during a team training session in Karachi. The incident, which occurred earlier this week, resulted in an immediate medical evacuation and a period of unconsciousness for the bowler. As the team prepares for their upcoming PSL 2026 fixtures, the focus remains firmly on Sajjad’s recovery and wellbeing.

How the Accident Unfolded

According to reports from the training ground, the incident was an unfortunate accident that left little time for reaction. Sajjad had just completed a delivery in the nets and was walking back toward his run-up position. Simultaneously, a powerful flat shot from a batter practicing in an adjacent net area inadvertently struck Sajjad square on the back of his neck. The impact was severe enough to cause him to collapse to the ground and lose consciousness almost immediately.

Rapid Medical Response

The swift action of the medical staff on-site was instrumental in Sajjad’s initial stabilization. Team physio Cliffe Deacon was on the scene within seconds to administer emergency first-aid protocols. An ambulance was stationed at the facility as part of standard safety procedures and was able to transport the cricketer to the hospital without delay. While Sajjad did not regain consciousness until he was inside the ambulance, the initial signs upon waking were encouraging.

Positive Prognosis and Recovery

The medical team has confirmed that Sajjad showed positive neurological signs shortly after waking. Perhaps most crucially, hospital scans and evaluations have reassured the franchise and his family that there is no evidence of a blood clot resulting from the blow. He was able to speak with his family shortly after the incident, which served as a massive relief to the team management and his teammates.

Islamabad United has taken a compassionate approach to his recovery. The franchise management offered Sajjad the option to step away from the team environment entirely to focus on his health and spend time with his family. However, in a testament to his dedication, Sajjad opted to remain with the franchise as he continues his recovery process under medical supervision.

Looking Ahead for Islamabad United

The news comes at a critical juncture for Islamabad United, who are currently enjoying a strong start to the PSL 2026 season. With two wins and one loss, the team is currently positioned third on the points table. As they prepare for their high-stakes match against the Lahore Qalandars, the mood in the camp remains supportive of their teammate.

While Sajjad has not yet featured in the playing eleven for United this season, his health is the absolute priority for the franchise. The team has stated that they will continue to monitor his progress closely, following strict concussion protocols before determining any timeline for his return to the field.

Prioritizing Player Safety

This incident serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks involved in cricket training. Even in controlled environments, the unpredictability of sport requires constant vigilance. The effective response by the team physio and the presence of on-site medical transport highlights the importance of the safety standards implemented by the Pakistan Super League to ensure that players receive immediate professional care in the event of an emergency.

We wish Mir Hamza Sajjad a full and speedy recovery as he continues to rest and recover from this unfortunate ordeal.

Elias Chawla

Elias Chawla is a senior sports journalist for ESPN India, specialising in women's cricket, domestic circuits, and the intersection of governance and talent development. With a rare ability to find compelling narratives in India's sprawling age-group and university cricket systems, Chawla has broken several stories on the challenges and triumphs of female cricketers in South Asia. A graduate of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication, he writes with clarity and conviction, often calling for greater parity and investment in the women's game. His work has been featured in ESPNcricinfo, The Cricket Monthly, and Wisden India. Whether profiling the next U-19 star or dissecting BCCI policy, Chawla brings a grassroots-first perspective to every piece.