Pakistan national selection committee is considering young left-arm pacer Akif Javed to replace fast bowler Haris Rauf, who is sidelined due to injury, for the ongoing tri-nation ODI series, sources revealed.
For the unversed, Haris Rauf left the field during the 36th over of the tri-nation series opener against New Zealand after bowling 6.2 overs due to a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region.
“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,” PCB shared in a statement.
“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.
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“However, as a precautionary measure and part of his ongoing rehabilitation, he will not be available for selection against South Africa on 12 February.”
The sources have revealed that a replacement player will likely be added to the squad, with discussions revolving around Mohammad Wasim Jr., Akif Javed, and Mohammad Ali.
According to sources, the selection committee of Pakistan is inclined towards including Akif as Rauf’s replacement and an official announcement regarding his inclusion is expected soon.
Despite his injury, Haris Rauf will continue to stay with the national squad. Meanwhile, sources confirm that no changes are expected in Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad as of now.
READ: Tri-nation series: South Africa, New Zealand squads reach Karachi