New Zealand tailender Mitchell McClenaghan collapsed on the pitch after a bouncer crashed through his grille during a one-day international against Pakistan. McClenaghan suffered facial injuries after being struck in the face.
Facing Pakistani quick Anwar Ali on the penultimate ball of New Zealand's innings, McClenaghan was sent to the turf after missing a hook shot.
Lucky escape: Mitchell McClenaghan leaves the field with an injured eye after being struck by a bouncer.
Lucky escape: Mitchell McClenaghan leaves the field with an injured eye after being struck by a bouncer. Photo: Hagen Hopkins
The ball ricocheted off the underside of the peak of his helmet and smashed into his eye before becoming lodged inside the grille.
The force was so powerful that part of the grille was sent flying onto the pitch and his eye immediately began to swell.
Fortunately, the fast bowler was able to get to his feet and left the field to cheers from the Basin Reserve crowd after retiring hurt for a much-needed 31 off 18 deliveries.
McClenaghan needed stitches near his left eye after the ball smashed into his face.
McClenaghan needed stitches near his left eye after the ball smashed into his face. Photo: Sky News
He soon received stitches near his left eye, but didn't initially appear for New Zealand's bowling effort as he was being treated at a nearby hospital, with Adam Milne substituting him on the field.
His innings played a big part in getting the Black Caps out of trouble after Pakistan sent them into bat.
The home team was reeling at 99-6 before crucial knocks from Henry Nicholls (82), Mitchell Santner (48), Matt Henry (48*) and McClenaghan helped them through to 280-8.
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