Haris Rauf has recovered from injury and is fit to play in Pakistan’s Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand on February 19. He missed tri-series matches while healing from a lower chest wall strain but is now ready for selection. Rauf has made notable contributions in ODIs and is crucial for Pakistan’s performance in the tournament.
Pakistan’s cricket team has received a vital boost ahead of their ICC Men’s Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, as ace pacer Haris Rauf has recovered from a muscular injury. Rauf had missed the recent tri-series matches due to a lower chest wall strain sustained during the first match against New Zealand. Fortunately, he is now fit and ready for selection against the BlackCaps.
Rauf’s recovery is timely, considering he is the forefront of Pakistan’s bowling attack. Sources from news agency PTI confirmed, “Haris is okay now and the rest given to him after the first match of the Tri-Series has helped him recover well.” Additionally, uncapped speedster Akif Javed was on standby as a backup during his absence.
In terms of his performance, Haris Rauf has proven himself a key player in ODIs, collecting 83 wickets across 46 matches and 110 wickets in 79 T20 internationals. He remained part of the squad despite not participating in the Tri-Series against South Africa and New Zealand’s final.
Former cricketer Mohammad Amir had previously expressed concern regarding Rauf’s fitness, warning that a side strain could sideline him for six weeks. “If Haris Rauf has a side strain, he cannot recover fully before six weeks. If it’s just stiffness, then that’s different,” Amir stated. “I don’t think he can play the Champions Trophy.”
The Champions Trophy format places Pakistan in Group A with India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, leading to a highly anticipated match against India in Dubai on February 23, followed by a group-stage match against Bangladesh on February 27.
In summary, Haris Rauf’s recovery is a significant advantage for Pakistan as they prepare for the Champions Trophy. With 83 ODI wickets to his name, Rauf’s return bolsters Pakistan’s bowling lineup. Furthermore, while concerns about his fitness were raised, his availability marks an optimistic turn as the team faces formidable opponents in the tournament.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
