Haris Rauf has been declared fit and will be available for Pakistan’s ICC Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand on Wednesday
The fast bowler had suffered a muscular strain in his lower chest wall during the opening match of the tri-nation series against New Zealand, ruling him out of the tournament. Akif Javed was brought in as his replacement.
Read more: Injury Worry For Haris Rauf Pre-T20WC
However, a source close to the team confirmed that Rauf has fully recovered. “Haris is completely fine now. The rest after the first match of the tri-series helped him recover well,” the source stated, adding that no other players in the squad have fitness concerns.
Rauf’s return is a major boost for Pakistan, strengthening their bowling attack in the middle and death overs. His absence in the tri-series saw Pakistan struggle to take wickets, with replacements Mohammad Hasnain and Faheem Ashraf failing to make an impact. With Rauf back, Pakistan is set to launch a strong title defense in the Champions Trophy.