The upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is fast approaching, and teams are hoping that their key players stay fit, with those recovering from injuries getting back to full fitness before the tournament begins. Pakistan is among the teams facing this concern.
Haris Rauf’s Injury Update: Will He Be Fit for ICC Champions Trophy 2025?
Haris Rauf recently caused concern for Pakistan after injuring himself during the Tri-nation ODI series opener against New Zealand on February 8 in Lahore. Rauf had to leave the field early after taking one wicket for 23 runs, and he didn’t come out to bat during Pakistan’s 78-run loss to the Black Caps.
Haris Rauf had to leave the field after bowling just 6.2 overs due to a muscle sprain, raising doubts about his availability for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi with the Pakistan versus New Zealand match.
Pakistan Cricket Board Provides Clarity on Haris Rauf’s Fitness
Amidst concerns about Haris Rauf’s fitness, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided a major update, easing fears of him missing the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. The PCB confirmed that Rauf sustained a muscle sprain in his lower chest wall, but it is not as serious as initially feared.
The board assured that Rauf is expected to be fully fit in time for the tournament. However, as a precaution, Rauf has been rested for Pakistan’s second match in the ongoing tri-nation ODI series against South Africa on February 12.
The PCB said in a press release, “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. 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. However, as a precautionary measure and part of his ongoing rehabilitation, he will not be available for selection against South Africa on 12 February.”
Dismissed for a duck! @HarisRauf14 strikes to remove Tom Latham 🔥#3Nations1Trophy | #PAKvNZ pic.twitter.com/6R3XI4lIiT
— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) February 8, 2025
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faced some criticism after New Zealand’s Rachin Ravindra was injured during the first ODI of the tri-series in Lahore. The injury happened due to bad light, causing a cut on his forehead that bled. He was quickly taken off the field for treatment.
Pakistan’s Spin Attack Strengthened with Muqeem’s Inclusion
Meanwhile, left-arm spinner Sufiyan Muqeem will join Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Muqeem is set to partner Abrar Ahmed in the team’s spin attack for the tournament.
Muqeem, who made a strong ODI debut in December 2024 against South Africa, was not originally part of the final squad. There were reports that Pakistan would rely only on Abrar Ahmed. However, sources have confirmed Muqeem will be added to strengthen Pakistan’s spin attack for the tournament.
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