Haris Rauf faces setback with injury in tri-series match against NZ

Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf was forced to leave the field during the tri-series opener against New Zealand in Lahore on Saturday due to a rib injury.

The injury occurred in his seventh over of the match when Rauf felt discomfort and was unable to complete the over.

Salman Agha stepped in to finish Rauf's over, and the pacer left the ground for immediate treatment.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) later confirmed that Rauf had sustained a low-grade 1 strain and was also experiencing discomfort in his stomach muscles.

The board assured that Rauf had received prompt medical attention, and his condition will be closely monitored before making a decision on his return to the field.

Rauf is part of Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming Champions Trophy 2025, and his fitness will be a concern moving forward in the series.

In the match, New Zealand posted a formidable total of 330/6, with Glenn Phillips playing a match-winning knock of 106* off 74 balls, including seven sixes and six fours.

His innings helped New Zealand recover from a shaky start, supported by solid contributions from Kane Williamson (58) and Daryl Mitchell (81).

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New Zealand won the toss and chose to bat first.

Pakistan's bowlers, including Shaheen Afridi, who took three wickets, fought back, but Phillips' late onslaught ensured New Zealand set a challenging target.

In response, Pakistan made a notable change in their batting lineup, with Babar Azam to open alongside Fakhar Zaman due to the absence of regular opener Saim Ayub.