Akif replaces Haris in Pakistan squad

LAHORE: Left-arm pacer Akif Javed has been drafted into Pakistan’s squad for the ongoing tri-nation ODI series against South Africa and New Zealand, replacing the injured Haris Rauf.

Rauf, who sustained a muscular sprain in his lower chest during Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand on Saturday, has been rested as a precautionary measure.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) confirmed that MRI and X-ray scans ruled out any serious injury, and the speedster is expected to fully recover ahead of the ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025, set to begin in Karachi on February 19.

In a statement, the PCB said, “Following MRI and X-ray scans, it has been confirmed that Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf sustained a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region during Saturday’s match against New Zealand.

The injury is not serious, and he is expected to be fully recovered for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. However, as a precautionary measure, he will not be available for selection against South Africa on 12 February.”

Rauf had left the field during the 38th over of New Zealand’s innings at Gaddafi Stadium. In his absence, the 28-year-old Akif Javed has been called up to bolster the pace attack. Akif has so far played 23 first-class matches, 30 List-A games, and 68 T20s, picking up 169 wickets across formats, including a five-wicket haul. Pakistan will face South Africa in their final league-stage match of the tri-series on Wednesday, with a win securing their place in the final against New Zealand.