Haris Rauf Injury Update: Will He Recover in Time for Champions Trophy 2025? PCB Provides Clarity"

Haris Rauf recently suffered a muscle sprain during the ongoing tri-series match against New Zealand, which also includes South Africa. The fast bowler was able to bowl only 6.2 overs before leaving the field due to injury. Initially, it was unclear how serious the injury was, leading to concerns that he might miss the entire tri-series.

However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has alleviated these concerns regarding Rauf’s injury and his availability for the Champions Trophy. They confirmed that he is expected to make a full recovery from the muscle sprain he sustained during the first match of the tri-series against New Zealand.

There were initial fears that the injury could rule Rauf out of the Champions Trophy 2025, but the PCB clarified that he only sustained a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall. The injury is not as severe as initially feared.

"After conducting MRI and X-ray scans, it has been confirmed that Haris Rauf suffered a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region during Saturday's game against New Zealand. The injury is not serious, and he is expected to be fully fit for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which starts in Karachi on February 19," the PCB statement reads. 

“As a precautionary measure and part of his rehabilitation, Rauf will not be available for selection against South Africa on February 12,” the statement added.

Haris Rauf is an important pacer in the team's bowling line-up and had a fantastic start in the match against New Zealand, conceding just 23 runs and taking one wicket. However, once he left the field, the bowling strategy fell apart, allowing the Kiwi batters to capitalize on the situation. Both Glenn Phillips and Daryl Mitchell adopted an attacking approach, helping New Zealand post a competitive total, which Pakistan failed to chase down, resulting in an all-out.

With the team now needing to win the next match to progress to the finals, Rauf's absence could significantly alter their plans. Currently, South Africa is on the verge of losing their second ODI against New Zealand, leaving both Pakistan and South Africa in a virtual knockout situation, where the winner will qualify for the finals of the tri-series.