The participation of Pakistani pace sensations Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah in the present Asia Cup hangs in the balance during nail-biting matches, throwing doubt on their team’s chances in the competition. These two ferocious bowlers were hurt in a tense Super Four match in Colombo against India, their longtime rivals.
Morne Morkel, a former South African fast who is now Pakistan‘s bowling coach, clarified the situation by stating that Haris Rauf had been experiencing pain in his oblique muscle the previous evening. After a scan, it was discovered that he was dealing with inflammation, raising questions about his fitness.
In regards to Naseem Shah, the young bowler had earlier complained of a shoulder ache when fielding, and he brought up the same complaint during the match against India. Amazingly, Naseem bowled nine over, demonstrating incredible resiliency. Morkel emphasised that a cautious approach was taken in Haris Rauf’s case, nevertheless, because of the upcoming World Cup. As a result of Rauf’s likely absence, Morkel stated that other players on the team would need to stand up to fill the bowling hole.
Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan have been recalled by Pakistan in response to these events to provide as back-up alternatives for the injured pair. Importantly, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) stated that Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf will continue to be closely examined by the team’s medical personnel and have not been officially ruled out of the Asia Cup.
The team’s medical staff will continue to keep an eye on Haris Rauf and Naseem.
“This is just a precautionary step with the players’ health and fitness in mind before the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup starts next month. If Naseem or Haris are declared out for the next seven days, the team management will only ask the ACC technical committee for a replacement, according to a statement from PCB.
India defeats Pakistan with a strong overall effort.
The Super Four matchup between Pakistan and India produced an exciting fight that played out over two gripping days despite the uncertainty surrounding the Pakistani pace pair. India showed off their batting ability in the opening innings by scoring 356 runs for the cost of just two wickets. Virat Kohli and KL Rahul, a powerful duo, took the lead with outstanding hundreds, scoring an unbeatable 122 and 111, respectively.
As a result of the persistent pressure applied by the potent Indian bowling attack, Pakistan’s batting lineup disintegrated. India’s star spinner, Kuldeep Yadav, claimed a remarkable five-wicket haul, while other bowlers chipped in with crucial dismissals.