Pakistan’s hopes in the Asia Cup 2023 have taken a significant blow with the news that fast-bowler Haris Rauf is in danger of being sidelined due to injuries sustained during the crucial Super 4 match against arch-rivals India. As the tournament reaches its climax, Pakistan has drafted Shahnawaz Dahani as a backup for Rauf, underlining the seriousness of the situation.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the decision to call up Dahani as a precautionary measure, with concerns growing about the fitness of Haris Rauf ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup, just a few weeks away. While the PCB has not disclosed the full extent of Rauf’s injuries, it is increasingly likely that the right-arm seamer will be unavailable for Pakistan’s crucial Super 4 match against Sri Lanka on Thursday.
In a statement released late on Monday, the PCB stated, “This is only a precautionary measure keeping in mind the fitness and well-being of the player ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month. Haris will continue to remain under the observation of the team’s medical panel. The team management will only request a replacement from the ACC technical committee if Haris is ruled out for the next seven days.”
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The India vs Pakistan match, which became a two-day affair due to persistent rain, tested the endurance of Pakistan’s bowlers, who had to return to the field to complete the remaining 25.5 overs in grueling conditions on the reserve day. However, Haris Rauf did not participate in the game on the reserve day. The PCB revealed that Rauf had complained of “discomfort in his right flank” before the start of play on Monday. Although scans did not reveal a tear, he was rested as a precautionary measure. Rauf had bowled five overs on the previous day.
Notably, Haris Rauf did not come out to bat either during Pakistan’s innings. As India secured an emphatic victory, Pakistan wisely chose not to risk their fast bowlers in a lost cause. Morne Morkel, the team’s bowling coach, revealed the reason behind Haris Rauf’s absence, stating that Rauf had suffered an unfortunate “oblique muscle” injury. This injury, which affects the side muscles, is known for its intensity and potential to require a substantial recovery period.
With the Asia Cup approaching its decisive stages and the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup looming on the horizon, Pakistan faces a critical juncture in its preparations. The absence of a key bowler like Haris Rauf is undoubtedly a setback, and the nation’s cricket fans will be anxiously awaiting updates on his condition in the coming days. Pakistan’s chances in both tournaments will largely depend on the pace bowler’s road to recovery.
