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Haris Rauf’s Return Post Injury Boosts Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Hopes

Haris Rauf’s Injury Update – Pakistan’s quest for T20 World Cup glory received a significant boost with the news of Haris Rauf’s imminent return from injury. The right-arm pacer is poised to make his comeback after a shoulder injury sidelined him for several months.

Injury Scare and Missed Matches

Rauf’s last competitive appearance came in February 2024 during the Pakistan Super League (PSL). Haris Rauf sustained a shoulder injury while attempting a catch, forcing him to miss the remainder of the tournament and the subsequent five-match T20I series against New Zealand at home.

Selection and Training

Despite the initial setback, Rauf earned a call-up for the ongoing tour of the United Kingdom. Although he didn’t feature in the recently concluded series against Ireland, he has begun training with the team ahead of the upcoming T20Is against England. Reports suggest he’s bowling with rhythm and sharpness in the nets, raising hopes for a quick return.

Haris Rauf’s Injury Update – Decision on Playing Time

A key question remains: will Rauf be included in the first T20I against England? The Pakistan team’s medical panel, including the doctor, physiotherapist, trainer, and head coach, will make the final call. They will weigh the benefits of testing his fitness against the potential risks of rushing him back before the World Cup.

Captain Babar Azam reportedly wants to see Rauf in action to assess his workload management needs. This assessment would be crucial for the selection committee when finalizing the 15-member T20 World Cup squad.

Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Ambitions

Pakistan has a clear goal: to lift the T20 World Cup trophy after falling short in the previous two editions. In 2021, they exited at the semifinal stage, followed by a heartbreaking final loss against England in 2022.

The upcoming series against England provides them with vital preparation time before the World Cup, which takes place in the USA and West Indies next month. Pakistan will face stiff competition in Group A, which includes arch-rivals India, Ireland, Canada, and the USA.

Haris Rauf’s Injury Update – Rauf’s return adds firepower to Pakistan’s bowling attack, known for its pace and aggression. His presence alongside Shaheen Afridi and Mohammad Amir could create a formidable bowling trio capable of dismantling any batting lineup.

With Rauf nearing his return and a crucial tournament approaching, Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign appears to be on the right track. The upcoming matches against England will serve as a vital platform to assess his fitness and determine his role in their championship pursuit.

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