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Pakistan’s cricket team has been forced to make last-minute changes to their squad for the ongoing Asia Cup due to injuries sustained by their star fast bowlers, Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf. The injuries occurred during a high-stakes Super 4 match against arch-rivals India, leaving the Pakistani team management concerned about the fitness of their key players.
Haris Rauf’s oblique muscle strain
During the crucial Super 4 encounter against India at the iconic R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo, Rauf was notably absent on the Reserve Day of the match. The reason behind his absence was revealed by Morne Morkel, the team’s bowling coach, who stated that Rauf had suffered an unfortunate “oblique muscle” injury. This ailment, which affects the side muscles, is known to be particularly painful and can require significant recovery time.
Naseem Shah’s bowling shoulder injury
While Rauf’s injury raised concerns, another blow struck Pakistan when Naseem, their emerging pace sensation, was forced to leave the field during the 49th over of India’s innings. Naseem had injured his bowling shoulder, which immediately raised alarms within the team camp. His absence from both bowling and batting in the India match emphasized the severity of his condition and the need for immediate medical attention.
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With the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup looming just around the corner, Pakistan’s cricket authorities were quick to realize the gravity of the situation. Both Rauf and Naseem are considered vital components of Pakistan’s fast-bowling arsenal, and their fitness is crucial for the team’s chances in the upcoming global cricket extravaganza.
Pakistan bring in Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as precautionary measures
To ensure that their premier pacers are in the best possible shape for the World Cup, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken proactive steps. As a precautionary measure, PCB has added two talented pace options, Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan, to the Asia Cup 2023 squad. These additions will provide the team with much-needed depth in the fast-bowling department.
In an official statement, the PCB stated, “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, and the two will continue to remain under the observation of the team’s medical panel.”
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The PCB further elaborated on their strategy, saying, “The team management will only request replacement from the ACC (Asian Cricket Council) technical committee if Haris or Naseem are ruled out for the next seven days.” This approach indicates that Pakistan are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring that their star pacers have every opportunity to recover in time for the World Cup.
You can check our article on the 2023 Asia Cup odds.
