The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided fans with some relief by giving an update on injured pacer Haris Rauf ahead of the crucial 2025 Champions Trophy. The 31-year-old sustained a muscle strain during the opening match of the home tri-series against New Zealand on February 8, which forced him to leave the field.
However, the board has assured that the injury is not severe and Rauf will be available for the Champions Trophy, beginning February 19. As a precaution, the PCB confirmed that the fast bowler will not be selected for the final league match of the ongoing tri-series against South Africa on February 12.
The PCB statement on Rauf was as follows (via pcb.com.pk):
“Following MRI and X-ray scans, it has been confirmed that Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf sustained a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region during Saturday’s match against New Zealand. The injury is not serious and he is expected to be fully recovered for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which commences in Karachi on 19 February.”
It further continued:
“However, as a precautionary measure and part of his ongoing rehabilitation, he will not be available for selection against South Africa on 12 February.”
Rauf delivered 6.2 overs before leaving the field during the tri-series opener against New Zealand. He was in the midst of an impressive spell, having taken 1/23, before his early exit, which added to Pakistan’s woes as they went on to lose the match.
Pakistan faces a major setback following Haris Rauf’s injury against New Zealand
Haris Rauf’s injury proved to be a major setback for Pakistan in their tri-series opener against New Zealand in Lahore on February 8. Pakistan controlled most of the innings but struggled in the death overs, allowing Glenn Phillips to score a brilliant 106* off 74 balls, leading New Zealand to 330/6. In response, Pakistan began well, reaching 52/0 in 9.5 overs.
However, despite a brilliant 84 off 69 balls from opener Fakhar Zaman, the team collapsed to 252 all out, falling short by 78 runs. With this defeat, Pakistan must secure a victory in their final league-stage match against South Africa to keep their hopes alive for the final on Friday, February 14.
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