Pakistan call backup pacers as Naseem, Rauf doubtful Asia Cup 2023

COLOMBO: Pakistan called up two backup pacers on Monday after Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah suffered 'niggles' in the rain-soaked Asia Cup Super 4 match against India, according to ARTICLE NEWS

According to a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Shahnawaz Dahani and Zaman Khan have been called up as backup pacers after Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah sustained injuries during the match against India.

The statement claims that "this is only a preventative measure to ensure the players' fitness and well-being ahead of the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup next month."

According to the statement, Haris and Naseem will continue to be monitored by the team's medical personnel.

The team management would only request a replacement from the ACC technical committee if Naseem or Haris were out of town for the following week, according to the statement.

Pakistan was dealt a setback when authorities announced that fast bowler Haris Rauf had developed an injury and would not be able to play any further matches. Later, fellow quick Naseem Shah went away with considerable pain in his hand.

It is worth noting that Virat Kohli and the returning KL Rahul both made unbroken century in India's 228-run thumping of Pakistan on Monday's second day of the Asia Cup 2023.

Kohli (122) and Rahul (111), who combined for 233 runs, helped India achieve 356-2, a total they defended after bowling out Pakistan for 128 in the 50-over match in Colombo.

Pakistan finished on 128-8 in 32 overs, despite the absence of injured bowlers Haris Rauf and Naseem Shah. Kuldeep Yadav of India returned figures of 5-25.