In an unexpected turn of events at the Asia Cup 2023, Pakistan’s cricket team is grappling with a challenging situation as star pacers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah have been sidelined due to injuries.
This development has injected a sense of suspense and uncertainty into the tournament, mere weeks before the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup.
Recent updates have seen Pakistan making swift moves by calling up Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as backup options, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The cricket board has taken a proactive stance, prioritizing the fitness and well-being of their players, with their sights firmly set on the forthcoming World Cup.
As the Asia Cup 2023 unfolds, Haris and Naseem are now under constant scrutiny from the team’s medical staff, with Pakistan’s management anxiously monitoring their progress.
The team will contemplate requesting replacements from the Asian Cricket Council technical committee only if both players are ruled out for the critical seven days ahead.
Pakistan’s journey to the Super Four stage faces a pivotal test against Sri Lanka. The injury saga began on September 11 when Rauf was abruptly ruled out of the high-stakes clash against India. Naseem Shah, too, was unable to take the field due to a minor finger injury.
Morne Morkel, Pakistan’s bowling coach, shed light on Rauf’s condition, revealing discomfort in his oblique muscle, which was confirmed by scans showing inflammation.
Morkel emphasized the precautionary nature of the decision, suggesting that the team would rely on other bowlers to complete the remaining overs.
Haris Rauf had emerged as a standout performer in the tournament, notably in the first India-Pakistan encounter of the Asia Cup, where he secured three crucial wickets.
The trio of Haris, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Naseem Shah had collectively accumulated an impressive 68 wickets in the 50-overs format this year, solidifying their role as a cornerstone of Pakistan’s strategy heading into the World Cup in October.
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