Haris Rauf ruled out of tri-nation series, expected to be fit for Champions Trophy

Star Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has been ruled out of the ongoing Tri-nation series against New Zealand and South Africa. However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is hopeful that the speedster to be fully fit for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Rauf had to leave the field after bowling 6.2 overs against New Zealand in the opening game of the tri series.

PCB has also announced Akif Javed as Rauf’s replacement for the tri-series. The 24-year-old has played 16 matches in the Pakistan Super League (PSL) scalping 18 wickets at an average of 23.33. He also has 33 scalps from 30 matches in his List A career.

Meanwhile, Pakistan would hope that Rauf regains his fitness



in time for the Champions Trophy as he was seen in sensational form in the ODI series against Australia in November 2024. He finished as the highest wicket-taker of the series with 10 scalps to his name from three innings at an average of 12 and an economy of 5.

“Left-arm fast bowler Akif Javed has been called up as a replacement for Haris Rauf in the tri-nation ODI series. Haris has been advised to rest after sustaining a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall during Saturday’s match against New Zealand. The replacement is only for the tri-nation ODI series, as Haris Rauf is expected to be fully fit and available for selection for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025,” informed PCB in a media release.