Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan has dispelled all rumors surrounding Haris Rauf’s fitness, assuring fans that the fast bowler is fully fit and ready for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Rizwan, while speaking at a pre-tournament press conference, confirmed Rauf’s recovery, putting an end to the concerns that arose after Rauf left the field during the 36th over of a tri-nation series match against New Zealand. Rauf had experienced a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall region, causing alarm among fans and experts alike.
“Following MRI and X-ray scans, it has been confirmed that Haris Rauf sustained a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region during the match against New Zealand,” read an official statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). “The injury is not serious, and he is expected to be fully recovered for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which commences in Karachi on February 19.”
Rizwan provided further insight into Rauf’s recovery journey. “Haris Rauf bowled at 80% intensity yesterday, and today, he is bowling with full rhythm,” Rizwan explained. “He is fit, strong, and available for selection.”
Emphasizing the role of experience in high-pressure tournaments, Rizwan highlighted the significance of senior players stepping up. “As senior players, we need to take responsibility, especially in global events like the Champions Trophy,” Rizwan said. “Players like me, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi have to lead from the front.”
Rizwan also appreciated the PCB’s efforts in preparing the stadiums for the tournament. “Our stadiums have been prepared in record time, and we must believe in our capabilities,” Rizwan asserted.
With the tournament’s commencement approaching, Rizwan made the team’s goal clear: “The entire squad is united in its desire to bring the trophy home. It’s not just me and Babar who want this; every player shares the same dream.”
Pakistan will kick off their ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign against New Zealand on February 19. Following this, they will travel to the UAE for a high-octane clash against India on February 23, before returning home to face Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.
Pakistan Squad for ICC Champions Trophy 2025:
• Mohammad Rizwan (c)
• Babar Azam
• Fakhar Zaman
• Kamran Ghulam
• Saud Shakeel
• Tayyab Tahir
• Faheem Ashraf
• Khushdil Shah
• Salman Ali Agha (vc)
• Usman Khan
• Abrar Ahmed
• Haris Rauf
• Mohammad Hasnain
• Naseem Shah
• Shaheen Shah Afridi
Rizwan’s confidence in Rauf’s fitness and the squad’s readiness has reignited optimism among fans, who eagerly anticipate Pakistan’s performance in the prestigious tournament.