February 26, 2008	Tuesday	Safar 18, 1429

KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 25: Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Aamir has been ruled out of the rest of the ICC Cricket Under-19 World Cup because of a dengue virus.

Aamir was hospitalized in Johor, where Pakistan played their group matches, and will not recover in time for the remaining matches, prompting the team management to call for all-rounder Kamran Hussain, who bowls off-spin, as a replacement.

Aamir opened the attack in Pakistan’s first match of the tournament against Malaysia and took three for 12 but hasn’t featured in any of their following games. His unavailability is a massive blow for Pakistan as he was regarded as their best bowler by their coach Mansoor Rana.

“We don’t see him recovering in time for this tournament,” Mansoor said. “This is a big loss. He’s a good batsman and a good fielder too. We will miss him. You will see him [emerge] in a couple of years.”

Aamir first represented Pakistan at the U-19 level on their tour of Australia and impressed with 10 wickets in five limited-over games. He also hit good form in the build-up to the World Cup with two four-wicket hauls in the tri-series involving England and hosts Sri Lanka.

Pakistan’s bowling attack, however, has coped remarkably well in Aamir’s absence. Even though Adil Raza acknowledged that Aamir was their best bowler, he has spearheaded the attack and taken 11 wickets in the tournament so far.—Agencies