The 2023 Asia Cup is currently in progress in Sri Lanka, and Pakistan’s cricket team is facing a setback as their key pacers, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, are uncertain for the remaining matches.
It has been reported that both Haris and Naseem will likely miss the upcoming match against the Lankan Lions on Thursday. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has provided a new update regarding the injured players.
The uncertainty surrounding the participation of Haris and Naseem in the remainder of the Asia Cup 2023 has led to some strategic moves by the PCB. Late on Monday, the PCB announced the inclusion of Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as backup players for their squad.
This development stems from the injuries sustained by Haris and Shah during the Super 4 match against India in Colombo. Haris had to rest on Monday due to discomfort in his right flank, while Naseem suffered a shoulder injury, which forced him to leave the field during the 49th over of Monday’s match.
The PCB has emphasized that these measures are precautionary and have been taken with the fitness and well-being of the players in mind, especially in light of the upcoming ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month.
In the meantime, both Haris and Naseem, who are dealing with injuries, will continue to be closely monitored by the team’s medical panel. The PCB has stated that a request for a replacement player will only be made to the ACC technical committee if it becomes necessary due to the unavailability of Haris or Naseem for the next seven days.
