Pakistan speedster Haris Rauf didn’t bowl during the clash against arch-rivals India at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo as a precautionary measure following a suspected side strain on the reserve day of the Ind vs Pak match.
While the precise extent of Haris’ injury is still uncertain, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), in conjunction with the team’s management, opted not to push his return for the match against India. After suffering difficulty on the scheduled match day, Haris received MRI scans later in the evening.
“He was subsequently taken for a precautionary MRI, which revealed no tear. He is under the observation of the team’s medical panel,” The PCB statement mentioned.
It’s significant that Haris bowled only five overs, allowing 27 runs without getting a wicket before undergoing scans. Fortunately, the PCB confirmed that there was no tear, and he is currently being monitored by staff.
Haris maintains the joint-leading position as the highest wicket-taker in the Asia Cup, having claimed nine wickets in four matches. However, his participation in the remaining matches of the competition is still pending confirmation.
Turning to the match itself, India posted a total of 147 runs for the loss of two wickets on the planned day of play before rain disrupted proceedings at the Colombo venue. As a result, the match was rescheduled for the reserve day on Monday, September 11.
Shadab Khan and bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi each claimed one wicket before the weather forced a stoppage in play on Sunday. Pakistan’s objective is to complete India’s batting innings with a reasonable total in pursuit of a probable triumph against their arch-rivals.
Meanwhile, Haris Rauf is expected to take his time to recover and is unlikely to be available for the upcoming Super Four games. Pakistan will meet co-hosts Sri Lanka on Thursday, September 14, at the R Premadasa Stadium in Colombo.
