Pakistan opener Imam-ul-Haq sustained a facial injury during the third One-Day International against New Zealand, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed on Saturday.

The incident occurred during the third over of Pakistan’s innings at the Bay Oval in Mount Maunganui. Imam was attempting a quick single when a fielder’s direct throw deflected off his helmet and struck his face.

Cricketer immediately fell to the ground and appeared to be in considerable pain. He was promptly attended to by medical staff and transported off the field by ambulance.

“Imam sustained a minor facial injury after being hit by a throw that deflected off his helmet,” the PCB said in a statement. “He was taken to a local hospital for further assessment as a precautionary measure.”

The PCB later confirmed that Imam’s condition was stable and that he had not suffered any serious damage. Doctors advised him to rest for two weeks, although he has been declared fit for air travel.