Pakistan cricket fans had a mini heart attack when Haris Rauf walked off injured during the match against New Zealand. With the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 just around the corner, any injury to Pakistan’s premier pacer is a massive concern.
Thankfully, the PCB confirmed that the injury is not serious, and Rauf is expected to be fit in time for the Champions Trophy. But for now, he won’t be available for the match against South Africa on February 12, leaving Pakistan in need of a temporary replacement for the ongoing tri-series.
Who Could Replace Haris Rauf?
According to reports, the Pakistan selection committee is considering three names:
- Akif Javed
- Mohammad Wasim Jr.
- Mohammad Ali
But if the latest updates are to be believed, Akif Javed is leading the race.
Read More: Ravi Shastri Backs Pakistan for Champions Trophy 2025 Semi-finals
Why Akif Javed?
If Pakistan is looking for a young, fiery left-arm pacer, Akif Javed is a solid choice. He recently had an impressive run in Pakistan’s domestic Champions One-Day Cup, where he took seven wickets at an average of 22.00 in just five games.
📊 Akif Javed’s Domestic Record
- List A Wickets: 33
- First-Class Wickets: 52
Though he is yet to make his international debut, his domestic numbers show serious potential. The selectors might see this as the perfect opportunity to test him at the international level, given that Pakistan needs variety in their pace attack.
Both Wasim Jr. and Mohammad Ali are also in the conversation. Wasim Jr. has been in and out of the squad but brings valuable international experience. Mohammad Ali has been more of a red-ball specialist but has shown glimpses of promise in white-ball cricket too.
However, the selection committee seems to be leaning towards Akif Javed, likely because he offers something different with his left-arm angle and raw pace.
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