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Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir slammed the Pakistan team management for risking Haris Rauf’s international career. Amir’s comments come after Rauf is likely to be in contention to play the tournament opener against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi, despite sustaining an injury.
Notably, Rauf sustained a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall during the first game of the tri-series against New Zealand on February 8. He delivered only 6.2 overs and was forced to leave the field, and didn’t participate in the remaining games.
The statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) at that time confirmed that Haris Rauf’s injury isn’t serious, and he will likely play against the Black Caps.
“Following MRI and X-ray scans, it has been confirmed that Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf sustained a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region during Saturday’s match against New Zealand,” PCB shared in a statement.
“The injury is not serious and he is expected to be fully recovered for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which commences in Karachi on 19 February.”
After reports of Haris Rauf making a comeback to the XI surfaced, Amir explained that if the right-arm pacer has sustained a side-strain, it will take quite some time to recover from injury and he might have to miss the Champions Trophy.
“If Haris Rauf has a side strain, he cannot recover fully before six weeks. If it’s just stiffness, then that’s different,” said Amir. “If it is a grade one or two side strain, no matter what, it will take six weeks, and then the rehab starts.”
Further, Amir felt that it will be a “foolish” decision to risk Haris Rauf’s career, as the pacer won’t be able to give his 100% due to injury.
“I think it will be foolish to risk his career for three matches of a tournament because he won’t be able to give his 100 percent,” said Mohammad Amir.
Haris Rauf resumes training ahead of Champions Trophy opener
Amid reports of Haris Rauf’s injury issues, the star pacer has returned to the nets ahead of the Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand. As per Rauf, he is feeling comfortable and feels the team management will take a final call on his participation in the game.
“I have started doing exercises a few days back and also resumed bowling since yesterday. I am feeling comfortable and my body is okay now the team management will decide about my playing in the opening match,” Haris Rauf was quoted by wire agency PTI as telling reporters at the National Stadium.
In 46 ODI games, Haris Rauf has scalped 83 wickets, with best figures of 5/18. With his pace and bounce, the right-arm pacer will be crucial for Pakistan’s chances in the tournament.
