Haris Rauf walks off with injury concerns in tri-nation series opener against New Zealand

Pakistan has been dealt a heavy blow as star seamer Haris Rauf walked off the field with injury concerns during the first ODI of the tri-nation series between Pakistan and New Zealand at Gaddafi Stadium. 

Rauf, who had been in excellent form, bowling with pace and control, began feeling pain and discomfort.

Haris reported severe chest pain after bowling. 

Sharp pain in left side of the chest and abdomen muscles following delivering a ball during the match.

 On assessment has low grade side strain.

The incident occurred on the second ball of the 37th over after delivering second delivery of the over. In considerable pain, Rauf didn’t wait for the physio and walked off the field, leaving a significant gap in Pakistan’s bowling attack.

This injury is a major concern for Pakistan, especially with the ICC Champions Trophy starting on February 19. The team cannot afford to lose another key player after the injury to opener Saim Ayub, who was ruled out of the tournament. 

Salman Ali Agha stepped in to complete Rauf’s remaining over, but the team will be anxiously awaiting updates on Rauf’s condition. His injury casts a shadow over Pakistan’s preparations for the upcoming major tournament, and the team will be hoping for good news about his recovery soon. 

New Zealand, batting first after winning the toss, has managed to reach 205/5 after 39 overs, despite losing two early wickets in the powerplay. The game remains in balance as both teams look to assert dominance in the opening match of the tri-nation series.