Pakistan has decided not to include injured right-arm speedster Haris Rauf in the playing XI for the upcoming Tri-Nation ODI series match against South Africa as a precautionary measure.
The Pakistan Cricket Board said Sunday that it has been confirmed following MRI and X-ray scans, that 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.
Rauf suffered injury during the previous play against New Zealand a day ago. The next match is scheduled to be played at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on February 12.
Rauf left the field midway during the 38th over of New Zealand’s innings in the opening match of the series at the Gaddafi Stadium and after undergoing medical assessment, was diagnosed with a low-grade side strain.
Notably, Haris took one wicket for just 23 runs in his 6.2 overs during the match. His absence left a void in the home side’s bowling attack, which was taken to the cleaners by Glenn Phillips in the last 10 overs.
The 31-year-old also did not walk out to bat as Pakistan succumbed to a gruelling 78-run defeat in the crucial match.
