Pakistan selectors consider replacements for Haris Rauf

Pakistan's national selection committee is considering young left-arm pacer Akif Javed as a possible replacement for fast bowler Haris Rauf, who has been ruled out of the ongoing tri-nation ODI series due to injury, sources have confirmed.

Rauf was forced to leave the field during the 36th over of Pakistan's opening match against New Zealand in the tri-nation series after bowling just 6.2 overs. He suffered a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region.

Following MRI and X-ray scans, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) released a statement confirming the injury. 

"The injury is not serious, and Haris Rauf is expected to make a full recovery in time for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which begins in Karachi on February 19," the statement said.

"However, as part of his rehabilitation and as a precautionary measure, Rauf will not be available for selection in Pakistan's next match against South Africa on February 12," statement added. 

Sources have revealed that the selection committee is considering several players to replace Rauf, including Mohammad Wasim Jr., Akif Javed, and Mohammad Ali. Among these, Akif Javed is said to be the likely choice to fill in for the injured pacer, with an official announcement expected soon.

Despite his injury, Haris Rauf will remain with the national squad. Sources also confirmed that no changes are expected to be made to Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy 2025 squad at this time.