In the electrifying world of cricket, injuries can cast a long shadow over a team’s prospects. The Asia Cup 2023 has been no exception to this rule, with Pakistan’s star pacers, Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah, finding themselves on the sidelines due to unfortunate injuries sustained during the intense IND vs. PAK match. The cricketing fraternity now awaits their fate, as their absence could significantly impact Pakistan’s journey in the tournament.
The backdrop to this story is Pakistan’s recent encounter with arch-rivals India. Pakistan faced a heavy defeat in a match with cricket enthusiasts on the edge of their seats. However, the pain didn’t end with the loss, as Haris Rauf, the leading wicket-taker in the Asia Cup 2023, encountered discomfort in his right flank during the crucial encounter. This discomfort led to his absence on the reserve day, raising concerns about his participation in the upcoming matches.
As if that weren’t enough, Naseem Shah, a vital cog in Pakistan’s bowling attack, had to leave the field during the 49th over of India’s innings due to a shoulder injury. This untimely setback prevented Rauf and Shah from participating in Pakistan’s unsuccessful chase, resulting in India’s emphatic 228-run victory.
According to popular Pakistani journalist Farid Khan tweeted, “Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf are almost certain to miss Pakistan’s next game, against Sri Lanka on Thursday, and their participation in the final should Pakistan get there is also unsure.”
Update: Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf are almost certain to miss Pakistan's next game, against Sri Lanka on Thursday, and their participation in the final – should Pakistan get there – is also unsure 😔💔
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 11, 2023
– via ESPNcricinfo #AsiaCup2023 #INDvPAK
While reports have suggested that keeping Rauf and Naseem from batting was a precautionary measure, it is evident that Pakistan’s team management is unwilling to take any chances, especially with the looming World Cup 2023 on the horizon. To bolster their bowling reserves, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken proactive measures by calling up two promising pacers, Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan, as backups. The move indicates the PCB’s commitment to ensuring a formidable squad for the upcoming World Cup.
PCB Seeks Compensation From Jay Shah-Led ACC, Check Full Report
PCB said in a media statement, “This is only a precautionary measure keeping in mind the fitness and well-being of the players ahead of the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup next month. Haris and Naseem will remain under the observation of the team’s medical panel. The team management will only request a replacement from the ACC technical committee if Naseem or Haris are ruled out for the next seven days.”
Breaking: Pakistan have called up Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as backups. The two have been called up after Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah picked up niggles in the match against India. #AsiaCup2023 #INDvPAK
— Farid Khan (@_FaridKhan) September 11, 2023
Adding to Pakistan’s injury concerns is Agha Salman, who faced a harrowing incident while playing against Ravindra Jadeja in the IND vs. PAK match. Salman was struck just below the eye and began to bleed profusely. The seriousness of his injury remains uncertain as he was rushed to the hospital for a thorough scan. His absence, if prolonged, could further complicate Pakistan’s campaign in the Asia Cup.
Farid Khan updated, “Breaking: Pakistan have called up Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan as backups. The two have been called up after Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah picked up niggles in the match against India.”
As the Asia Cup 2023 enters a crucial juncture, the focus shifts to the fitness status of Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah. The uncertainty surrounding their availability for the remainder of the tournament and, potentially, the final, if Pakistan reaches that stage, is a grave concern for Pakistani cricket fans. Their performances have been pivotal to the team’s success, and their absence could be a significant blow.
