Pakistan Receive Major Boost as Haris Rauf Recovers Ahead of Champions Trophy Opener vs New Zealand
Pakistan has received a significant boost ahead of their ICC Men’s Champions Trophy 2025 opener against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. Speedster Haris Rauf, who was dealing with a muscular strain in his lower chest wall, has successfully recovered and is now available for selection in the highly anticipated clash.
This development comes as a relief for the hosts, as Rauf’s presence will strengthen Pakistan’s fast-bowling attack, which is set to face tough competition in Group A alongside India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.
Haris Rauf’s Comeback: A Game-Changer for Pakistan
According to news agency PTI, Rauf suffered a muscular strain during the tri-series opener against New Zealand but has now fully recovered thanks to careful management and rest.
“Haris is okay now, and the rest given to him after the first match of the Tri-Series has helped him recover well,”
a source told PTI.
Despite missing Pakistan’s tri-series fixture against South Africa and the final against New Zealand, Rauf remained with the squad. The team also called up uncapped speedster Akif Javed as a backup. However, with Rauf now fit, he is expected to lead Pakistan’s pace attack alongside Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah.
Haris Rauf’s ODI & T20I Performance: A Proven Match-Winner
Haris Rauf has been a key player in Pakistan’s white-ball setup, known for his blistering pace and ability to bowl at the death. His impressive stats in ODIs and T20Is underline his importance in the squad:
✅ ODIs: 83 wickets in 46 matches
✅ T20Is: 110 wickets in 79 matches
With an ability to consistently clock 145+ kmph, Rauf brings raw pace, aggression, and experience to Pakistan’s bowling unit, making him a crucial asset in powerplays and death overs.
Mohammad Amir’s Concerns Over Rauf’s Fitness
Despite the good news of his recovery, former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir had earlier expressed concerns regarding Haris Rauf’s injury. Amir feared that if it were a side strain, it could have kept Rauf out of action for up to six weeks.
“If Haris Rauf has a side strain, he cannot recover fully before six weeks. If it’s just stiffness, then that’s different,”
Amir said in an interview with GeoSuper.tv.
Amir also warned against rushing Rauf’s return:
“If it is a grade one or two side strain, no matter what, it will take six weeks, and then the rehab starts. I suffered a similar injury during the PSL a few years ago. If it’s a serious strain, he won’t be able to give his 100%, and it would be foolish to risk his career for just three matches.”
While Amir’s concerns were valid, Pakistan’s management seems to have taken a cautious approach, ensuring that Rauf is only returning once fully fit.
Why Haris Rauf’s Return is Crucial for Pakistan in the Champions Trophy?
Pakistan has traditionally relied on its fast bowlers to dominate global tournaments, and Haris Rauf’s recovery comes at the perfect time as the team gears up for a highly competitive Group A. Here’s why his return is a game-changer:
- Extra Firepower Against Top Teams: Pakistan will face New Zealand, India, and Bangladesh in the group stage. All three teams have strong batting lineups, and Rauf’s pace and aggression will be crucial in breaking partnerships.
- Death Overs Specialist: One of Rauf’s biggest strengths is his ability to bowl yorkers and slower deliveries effectively in the final overs. His presence will allow Shaheen Afridi to attack early, while Rauf can be used to contain runs and take wickets in the last few overs.
- New Zealand Struggles Against Express Pace: Historically, New Zealand has had trouble facing high-speed bowlers in subcontinental conditions. With Rauf, Shaheen, and Naseem, Pakistan can exploit this weakness in their opening game.
Pakistan’s Champions Trophy 2025 Schedule
Pakistan will kick off their Champions Trophy campaign against New Zealand before playing two high-profile encounters against India and Bangladesh.
📌 Pakistan vs New Zealand – February 19, Karachi
📌 Pakistan vs India – February 23, Dubai 🏏🔥
📌 Pakistan vs Bangladesh – February 27, Karachi
The India vs Pakistan clash in Dubai is expected to be one of the most watched matches of the tournament, and Rauf’s presence will be a major boost for Pakistan’s bowling attack.
What This Means for Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Campaign?
Pakistan’s squad for the Champions Trophy 2025 already has a strong bowling attack, but Haris Rauf’s return adds an X-factor that could make a big difference in crucial matches.
📌 Key Takeaways:
✅ Rauf has fully recovered and is available for selection.
✅ Pakistan’s pace attack gets a massive boost ahead of their opener.
✅ Mohammad Amir had concerns, but the team managed Rauf’s injury well.
✅ Pakistan will face New Zealand on February 19, followed by India and Bangladesh.
✅ A fully fit Haris Rauf increases Pakistan’s chances of progressing to the semifinals.
Final Thoughts: A Timely Boost for Pakistan’s Title Hopes
With Haris Rauf back in action, Pakistan’s Champions Trophy campaign gets a massive lift. His ability to bowl with pace and precision, especially in death overs, could be the difference-maker in high-pressure games.
Pakistan fans will now eagerly await his performance when he steps onto the field against New Zealand on February 19. The big question remains—can Rauf lead Pakistan’s pace attack to Champions Trophy glory? 🏆🏏
Stay tuned for all the latest updates, match previews, and expert analysis on the Champions Trophy 2025!
