Pakistan's opening batter Imam-ul-Haq was forced to retire hurt during his side's run chase against New Zealand in the final ODI of their three-match series on Saturday.

Imam suffered a jaw injury after being struck by a delivery from New Zealand pacer, Lockie Ferguson, during Pakistan's pursuit of a target of 265 runs.

Following the blow, Imam received immediate medical attention on the field before being taken to the hospital for further examination.

The team's medical staff confirmed that Imam failed to pass the concussion test and would not be able to continue his participation in the match. Consequently, Usman Khan was brought in as a concussion substitute for Imam.

The match, which was reduced to 42 overs per side due to overnight rain, has seen a delayed start, and the dampened outfield has added to the challenges faced by both teams.

New Zealand, who had already secured an unassailable 2-0 lead in the series, were initially put to bat by Pakistan after winning the toss. The hosts finished their innings with 8 wickets down, setting a target of 265 runs.

Imam's injury occurred at a critical juncture, as Pakistan sought to break their winless streak in New Zealand, hoping to avoid a clean sweep in the series.

The last time Pakistan won an ODI on New Zealand soil was back in February 2011, and they will be keen to end that drought with a victory in today's match.

Meanwhile, New Zealand has been dealt a blow with the absence of in-form middle-order batter Mark Chapman, who has been ruled out of the match due to a hamstring injury. Chapman, who also missed the second ODI, was assessed during the team’s training session, and it was determined that he had not fully recovered. Tim Seifert, who replaced Chapman in the second ODI, remains with the squad as a replacement for the final match.