In a devastating setback for Pakistan’s national cricket team, the star bowler Haris Rauf has been ruled out of the highly anticipated Asia Cup Super 4 match against arch-rivals India. The news was confirmed by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Monday, leaving cricket enthusiasts on both sides of the border in shock.
The PCB released a statement prior to the match, stating, “Haris Rauf will not be bowling any further in the Asia Cup Super 4 match against India as a precautionary measure.” This announcement came in the wake of the match being interrupted by rain on the preceding Sunday.
Haris Rauf’s ordeal began during the interrupted match when he experienced discomfort in his right flank. As a precautionary measure, he was immediately taken for an MRI scan, the results of which, fortunately, revealed no significant tear or damage. Nevertheless, the team’s medical panel decided to keep a close watch on the talented pacer, whose performance has been crucial for Pakistan in recent times.
Morne Morkel, Pakistan’s esteemed bowling coach, shed light on the situation, explaining that Haris Rauf had undergone the scan after feeling discomfort in his oblique muscle. This development has raised concerns about Rauf’s fitness ahead of the upcoming World Cup, and the team management has decided to prioritize his well-being by resting him for the crucial clash against India.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s performance in the match, Morne Morkel noted, “We were a bit soft in the first 15-16 overs; we leaked soft boundaries. For us, it’s another opportunity to start well.” The team remains determined to regroup and put up a strong performance in Haris Rauf’s absence, with an eye on the impending World Cup.
As cricket fans brace themselves for this high-stakes encounter between Pakistan and India, Rauf’s absence will undoubtedly be felt keenly. However, the team remains optimistic and is focused on securing victory in this crucial Asia Cup Super 4 match.
