Karachi: Left-arm fast bowler Akif Javed has been called up to replace Haris Rauf in the ongoing tri-nation One Day International series. Haris Rauf has been advised to rest following a muscular sprain in his lower chest wall, which he sustained during a match against New Zealand on Saturday.
According to a statement by Pakistan Cricket Board, the decision to bring in Akif Javed is specific to the tri-nation series. Haris Rauf is expected to recover in time for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Pakistan is scheduled to play against New Zealand in Karachi on February 19, followed by a match against India in Dubai on February 23. Their final match in the series will be against Bangladesh in Rawalpindi on February 27.
The tri-nation series forms a crucial part of the team’s preparations ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy. The selection of Akif Javed aims to ensure that the team maintains its competitive edge in Rauf’s absence.