PCB Calls Up Backup Pacers For Injured Haris Rauf And Naseem Shah In Asia Cup 2023

• Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has called up backup players Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan.
• Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah picked up injuries during their match against India.
• The team management will request replacements for Haris and Naseem.

In light of doubts surrounding the participation of star pacers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah in the ongoing Asia Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a proactive approach by summoning Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as standby players.

Haris and Naseem encountered physical discomfort during their match against India, which ended in a significant defeat for the Green Shirts. To prioritize the well-being and fitness of these key players leading up to the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month, the PCB issued a late-night statement explaining this move.

Both Haris and Naseem will continue to be monitored by the team’s medical panel throughout the Asia Cup 2023. Only if their conditions prevent them from participating for the next seven days will the team management consider requesting replacements from the Asian Cricket Council technical committee.

Pakistan’s forthcoming Super Four match is scheduled against Sri Lanka, following which Sri Lanka will face India. Pakistan, buoyed by their victory over Bangladesh, is eager to maintain their winning momentum.

On the day of the clash against India, Haris Rauf was withdrawn as a precautionary measure, while Naseem Shah did not bat due to a minor finger injury. Morne Morkel, Pakistan’s bowling coach, provided insight into Haris Rauf’s injury, explaining that discomfort in his oblique muscle led to the decision.

He emphasized that this choice was made as a precaution, given the impending World Cup, and expressed confidence in the remaining bowlers to fulfill their roles.

Haris Rauf had made a significant impact in the tournament, particularly during the first India-Pakistan match, where he secured three crucial wickets. He, along with Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, forms a formidable pace trio that has collectively accounted for 68 wickets in the 50-overs format this year. These fast bowlers were considered a vital strength for Pakistan as they prepare for the upcoming World Cup in October