Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah’s participation in jeopardy for the rest of Asia Cup

In nail-biting clashes going on during the ongoing Asia Cup, the participation of Pakistani pace sensations Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah hangs in the balance, casting a shadow over their team’s prospects in the tournament. These two fiery bowlers sustained injuries during a high-intensity Super Four encounter against arch-rivals India in Colombo.

Pakistan’s bowling coach, the former South African speedster Morne Morkel, shed light on the situation. He confirmed that Haris Rauf had started feeling discomfort in his oblique muscle the night before. Following a scan, it was revealed that he was battling inflammation, which has raised concerns about his fitness.

As for Naseem Shah, the young pacer had previously experienced a shoulder niggle while fielding. During the match against India, he also complained of the same issue. Remarkably, Naseem managed to bowl nine overs, displaying immense resilience. However, Morkel emphasized that, in Haris Rauf’s case, a cautious approach was adopted, given the World Cup around the corner. Morkel noted that alternative options within the squad would need to step up to fill the bowling options.

In response to these developments, Pakistan has called up reinforcements. Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan are backup options for the injured duo. Importantly, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) clarified that Haris and Naseem have not been ruled out of the Asia Cup. They will continue to be closely monitored by the team’s medical staff.

Haris and Naseem will continue to remain under the observation: PCB

“This is only a precautionary measure keeping in mind the fitness and well-being of the players ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month. Haris and Naseem will continue to remain under the observation of the team’s medical panel. The team management will only request a replacement from the ACC technical committee if Naseem or Haris are ruled out for the next seven days,” PCB said in a statement.