Ansari’s dream day turns nightmarish

Uncapped Surrey all-rounder Zafar Ansari is a doubt for England's tour to the UAE to face Pakistan, after he dislocated his thumb just hours after being announced as part of the Test squad.

In a heavy blow for the left-arm spinner, Ansari suffered the 'open dislocation' of his left thumb while playing in a Championship match for Surrey, and had to leave the field with a bloody hand.

Surrey director, and former England captain, Alec Stewart said: "It didn't look good. He's gone off to hospital to see a hand specialist. It's his left thumb and he was in quite a bit of pain.

"Fingers crossed for him but seeing him in the dressing room it's certainly a concern.

"Obviously with the announcement this morning he was in a great place. He's earned that right, and he offers England something they haven't got.

"If he gets in that environment I think England will be very impressed with him. Let's not speculate now. Hopefully we'll get some news sooner rather than later."

Surrey later tweeted: "Latest on Zafar Ansari is he has a open dislocation of the left thumb and the injury will be reviewed over the next couple of days."

He was in the squad as a third spin option behind Moeen Ali and Adil Rashid, but with Rashid uncapped as well, it was speculated that Ansari would get the nod due to his top order batting prowess.

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