“If Haris Rauf Has A Side Strain…” Mohammad Amir On Whether Pakistan Pacer Will Play In Champions Trophy 2025

Mohammad Amir is concerned about Haris Rauf's new ailment and believes the pacer may miss the forthcoming Champions Trophy 2025 if it is a side strain.

The ICC Champions Trophy 2025 is quickly approaching, and all of the competing countries are hoping that their great players stay well and that anyone who has been injured will be able to recover before the tournament begins, including Pakistan.

Haris Rauf nearly died after an injury sustained during the ongoing Tri-nation ODI series opener between Pakistan and New Zealand in Lahore on February 8. Rauf had to depart early after taking one wicket while giving just 23 runs, and the pacer did not come out to bat.

Haris Rauf suffers a muscle sprain

Haris Rauf was forced to leave the field after bowling just 6.2 overs owing to a muscular strain, raising doubts over his availability for the upcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025, which begins on February 19 at the National Stadium in Karachi with a match between Pakistan and New Zealand.

Amidst the suspicion and concerns, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued a major update on Haris Rauf. The PCB dismissed fears about Haris Rauf missing the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025.

PCB discovered that Rauf sustained a muscle injury in his lower chest wall, which was not as serious as initially suspected. Subsequently, he was ruled out of the remainder of the tri-series but was expected to be fit for the Champions Trophy.

“Will be foolish to risk his career”- Mohammad Amir advises PCB on Haris Rauf

Mohammad Amir has now expressed concern about the injury, questioning whether it is more serious than previously thought. The former Pakistan pacer stated that if Rauf suffers a side strain, he will not fully recover for 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. If it is a grade one or two side strain, no matter what, it will take six weeks, and then the rehab starts,” said Amir, according to GeoSuper.tv.

Amir relates to Rauf

Amir recalls sustaining a similar injury during the Pakistan Super League a few years back and stated that if Rauf suffers a grade one or two side strain, he will be unable to play in the Champions Trophy.

The former pacer also advised PCB not to jeopardize Rauf's career because he will be unable to give his all during the forthcoming competition.

“I got this injury during PSL a couple of years ago. If it is a side strain of grade one or two, then I don’t think he can play in the Champions Trophy. I think it will be foolish to risk his career for three matches of a tournament because he won’t be able to give his 100 percent,” said Amir.

Pakistan will begin their campaign on February 19 against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi. It remains to be seen if Rauf will be fit for the game.

Also Read: Pakistan’s Vice-captain Accepts Defeat To India In Champions Trophy On This Condition