Haris Rauf To Miss Remaining Of World Cup 2023?

image-lonv6yfhHaris Rauf is struggling with a rib injury [AP Photo]

In what could be a massive blow to Pakistan, pacer Haris Rauf could find himself out of action in a crucial World Cup 2023 encounter against England.

As per Geo News, Rauf was taken for MRI scans in Kolkata to assess a potential strain in the bowler's rib. The fast bowler went off the field after bowling out a disastrous spell against New Zealand in Bangalore, leaking 85 runs. 

The source indicate that Rauf's injury is not serious and that the check-up is routine. Despite taking 13 wickets in the tournament, the Lahore Qalandars' product has been erratic and has failed to live up to expectations.

Pakistan are already facing issues with their bowling, with both spinners nonperforming, and the lack of a third seamer, a role that Mohammad Wasim Jr, has managed to fill in for of late. All-rounder Hasan Ali's fitness is also a concern, who missed the New Zealand tie.

Pakistan after their Fakhar Zaman-inspired win over New Zealand, via DLS by 20 runs, have kept themselves in the hunt for a semi-final spot.

Babar Azam and Co. were almost knocked out of the competition following four successive losses, after notching up two wins in their first two matches. 

Defending champions England are already out of World Cup 2023, having won just one out of the seven encounters, which include a loss against Afghanistan. 

The Pakistan-England clash will take place at Eden Gardens on Saturday.