Pakistan Cricket Players Injured: Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah Out of Asia Cup 2023

Pakistan’s cricket team is facing an unexpected challenge in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023 as star pacers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah have been sidelined due to injuries. In response to this setback, the Pakistan Cricket Board has taken precautionary measures, calling up Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as replacements, ensuring the team’s readiness for the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month.

The decision to bring in Dahani and Khan was announced in a late-night statement by the cricket board, emphasizing that it is primarily aimed at safeguarding the fitness and well-being of the players. Both Haris and Naseem will be closely monitored by the team’s medical panel during the remainder of the Asia Cup 2023.

However, the Pakistan team management will only request an official replacement from the Asian Cricket Council technical committee if either Haris or Naseem is deemed unfit to play for the next seven days. This measured approach underscores Pakistan’s commitment to maintaining a competitive edge while ensuring the welfare of their players.

Pakistan’s next and final match in the Super Four stage of the Asia Cup will see them face Sri Lanka, who will take on India before their encounter with Pakistan. The Green Shirts will be eager to maintain their momentum after a convincing victory over Bangladesh earlier in the tournament.

The injury woes began when Haris Rauf was ruled out as a precautionary measure for the match against arch-rivals India. Naseem Shah, on the other hand, was unable to bat due to a minor finger injury. Speaking about Rauf’s condition, Pakistan’s bowling coach, Morne Morkel, revealed, “Haris started feeling discomfort in his oblique muscle last night, and a scan showed some inflammation. Given the upcoming World Cup, this decision is precautionary, and we will rely on other bowlers to complete the remaining overs.”

Haris Rauf had played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s Asia Cup campaign, particularly in the first India-Pakistan encounter, where he claimed three crucial wickets. Alongside Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, he formed a formidable pace trio that collectively bagged an impressive 68 wickets in the 50-overs format this year. These three fast bowlers were seen as Pakistan’s major strength as they geared up for the World Cup in October.

As the cricketing world watches Pakistan’s progress in the Asia Cup and anticipates their performance in the upcoming World Cup, the nation hopes for a swift recovery for Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, recognizing their indispensable roles in the team’s success.