Pakistan opening batsman Usman Khan has been excluded from the second ODI against New Zealand following a hamstring injury he picked while playing in the first match of the series at Napier's McLean Park on Friday. The 29-year-old, who played his first ODI in the same game, injured his hamstring while fielding.

An MRI scan conducted post-match confirmed a low-grade tear, ruling him out of the important second ODI, which will be played on Wednesday, April 2, at Seddon Park, Hamilton.

A Promising Debut Cut Short
Usman was impressive in his first outing in ODIs, with a rapid-fire 39 off 33 balls at the top of the order. He was only added to Pakistan's side for this series late on, having got his chance after an impressive T20I series against New Zealand. His promising beginning has been cut short by this premature injury.

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Series Overview
New Zealand is currently leading the three-match series 1-0, following a dominant 73-run win in the first ODI. The hosts piled up a mammoth total of 344/9, with a blistering century by Mark Chapman. Even a gritty 78 off 83 balls by Pakistan captain Babar Azam could not save the day for the visitors, who were bowled out for 271 in 44.1 overs.

Remaining Fixtures
With Usman Khan ruled out, Pakistan has a selection headache as they approach the second ODI. The final of the series is scheduled for Saturday, April 5, at Bay Oval.

The injury to Usman Khan is the latest setback for Pakistan as they try to come back and keep the series alive against a strong New Zealand team.