While Haris Rauf is healing well, Naseem Shah may be sidelined for Pakistan’s first few World Cup matches.
Pakistan captain Babar Azam has expressed worries over pacer Naseem Shah’s ability to recuperate in time for the start of the World Cup in India.
The captain has stated that their star pacer Haris Rauf is “recovering well” from a side strain and would be ready for their first match against the Netherlands in Hyderabad on October 6.
The pair suffered minor injuries during Pakistan’s Super Four match against India at the Asia Cup and were watching from the sidelines as the team lost to Sri Lanka in Colombo on Thursday, which led to Pakistan’s elimination from the competition.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has not yet provided an official timescale for Naseem’s recovery from a right shoulder injury. As a result, Babar Azam raised concern about Naseem’s fitness for the start of the competition. “I’ll explain later… We’re not going to inform you about our backup plan right now. However, Haris Rauf is not without merit. He only has a minor side strain, but he’ll be OK for the World Cup.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has yet to issue an official timescale for Naseem’s recovery from a right shoulder injury.
In light of this, Babar Azam raised concern over Naseem’s fitness for the tournament’s start.
“I’ll explain later…” We’re not going to inform you about our backup plan just yet. But Haris Rauf is not without merit. He’s only suffered a minor side strain, but he’ll be fine for the World Cup.
Initially regarded as a red-ball specialist, he has matured into a significant bowler for Pakistan across all three versions of the game.
In one-day internationals, he has emerged as Pakistan’s most dangerous bowler, taking 32 wickets in 14 matches at an average of less than 17.
Teams must submit their 15-player groups to the ICC by September 28 in order to participate in the six-week competition. After that date, changes to those 15-player groups require the event organisers’ agreement.
Prior to the commencement of the World Cup, Pakistan does not have any official 50-over matches scheduled; however, they do have two non-official ODI warm-up matches against New Zealand on September 29 and Australia on October 3.
