In a display of unwavering determination, Pakistani express pacer Haris Rauf, despite suffering from a rib strain during their last match against New Zealand in Bengaluru, valiantly completed his full bowling quota. The discomfort didn’t deter him, although his figures of 1 wicket for 85 runs were not up to his usual standards. Additionally, spinner Shadab Khan, who missed out on some matches due to injury, is back in action, diligently preparing for the highly anticipated game against the defending champions.
To ensure the well-being of the players, Haris Rauf underwent an MRI scan of his rib, which fortunately revealed no major concerns. According to Pakistan’s media manager Umar Farooq, the precautionary scan was conducted after Haris reported pain on the left side of his ribs during the last game in Bengaluru against New Zealand. Meanwhile, senior all-rounder Shadab, who was sidelined from the team’s last two matches, has fully recovered and might make it to the playing XI against the English side.
Amidst their preparations, some Pakistani players chose to unwind before the crucial encounter. Four of them were seen spending time in a North Kolkata shopping mall on the EM Bypass. While a few indulged in shopping, others opted to stay at the team hotel, closely following the pivotal Afghanistan-Australia fixture.
The Babar Azam-led side faces a do-or-die situation against England, where a comprehensive victory is imperative. Furthermore, they need other results to align in their favor to secure a spot in the semifinals. However, their path to victory won’t be easy, considering the formidable challenge posed by the defending champions, who are determined to conclude their campaign on a triumphant note.
