Pakistan ODI Tri-Series 2025: Akif Javed Replaces Injured Haris Rauf; Hasnain to Play vs South Africa
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has announced left-arm pacer Akif Javed as the replacement for the injured Haris Rauf in the ongoing ODI tri-nation series (Pakistan, New Zealand, South Africa). Rauf suffered a minor injury during Pakistan’s opening match against New Zealand in Lahore and has been rested as a precautionary measure ahead of the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
Key Highlights
- Replacement: Akif Javed joins the squad only for the tri-series.
- Haris Rauf’s Status: Expected to recover fully for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025.
- Playing XI vs South Africa: Mohammad Hasnain replaces Rauf in the crucial virtual semifinal on February 12 in Karachi.
- Akif’s Chance: Could debut in the final against New Zealand if Pakistan qualifies.
PCB’s Official Statement
“The replacement is only for the tri-nation ODI series. Haris Rauf is expected to be fully fit and available for selection for the ICC Champions Trophy.”
Pakistan’s Playing XI for Virtual Semifinal vs South Africa
- Fakhar Zaman
- Babar Azam
- Saud Shakeel
- Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
- Agha Salman
- Tayyab Tahir
- Khushdil Shah
- Shaheen Afridi
- Mohammad Hasnain
- Naseem Shah
- Abrar Ahmed
Pakistan’s Tri-Series Squad
- Batters: Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Usman Khan.
- All-Rounders: Agha Salman, Khushdil Shah, Faheem Ashraf.
- Bowlers: Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Abrar Ahmed, Mohammad Hasnain, Akif Javed.
- Wicketkeeper: Mohammad Rizwan.
Why Resting Haris Rauf Matters
- Champions Trophy Priority: PCB aims to preserve Rauf’s fitness for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, a major global event.
- Strategic Move: Avoids risking aggravating his injury in a bilateral series.
Akif Javed’s Opportunity
- Left-Arm Pace: Adds variety to Pakistan’s pace attack.
- Potential Debut: Likely to feature in the final if Pakistan defeats South Africa.
FAQs
Q1. Why was Haris Rauf replaced?
A1. Rauf sustained a minor injury vs New Zealand; rested as a precaution for the ICC Champions Trophy.
Q2. Will Akif Javed play against South Africa?
A2. No. Mohammad Hasnain replaces Rauf in the semifinal. Akif may debut in the final if Pakistan qualifies.
Q3. Is Haris Rauf ruled out of the ICC Champions Trophy?
A3. No. PCB confirmed he’ll recover in time for the tournament.
Q4. Who leads Pakistan in the tri-series?
A4. Mohammad Rizwan (Captain & Wicketkeeper)
Stay tuned for live scores and updates on the tri-series finale! 🏏🔥