Young speedster Naseem Shah might not be able to recover in time to play in Pakistan’s opening ODI World Cup 2023 games, according to skipper Babar Azam. This might include the high-profile India vs Pakistan WC clash on October 14.
Although Naseem Shah has a right shoulder injury, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not released a schedule for his recovery.
Babar Azam seemed dubious as to whether Naseem would be ready to play from the start of the tournament next month.
There is more certainty that Haris Rauf, who is dealing with a side issue, will be ready for the start of the ODI World Cup 2023 because Pakistan did not even formally exclude him from the Asia Cup 2023 or add Shahnawaz Dahani as his replacement to the squad.
Naseem Shah doubtful, Haris Rauf hopeful
After Pakistan’s last-ball loss to Sri Lanka and elimination from the Asia Cup, Babar Azam expressed similar confidence in Haris Rauf chances while appearing to be unsure about Naseem Shah full World Cup availability.
When asked about backup plans Pakistan had in case Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf were unable to participate, Babar was vague about them but elaborated on both of their chances.
He replied to reporters, “I’ll tell you later. I’m not going to tell you about our backup plan right now. But Haris Rauf is actually rather good. He only has a little side injury, but he is recovering in time for the World Cup. Naseem Shah likewise… they have missed a few games; I’m not sure how long the rehabilitation will take, but in my opinion, Naseem Shah will participate in the World Cup later on. However, let’s see.”
Men in Green will start their campaign against the Netherlands on October 6 in Hyderabad before returning to the same venue for the clash against Sri Lanka on October 10. Then in Ahmedabad on October 14, Babar Azam’s men will go against Rohit Sharma & Co in a high-voltage match.
Where is Naseem currently?
The extent of Naseem Shah’s injury has not yet been specified by the PCB. His muscle issue, which he appeared to incur when bowling at the end against India on Monday, is currently being examined by scans while he is in Dubai. He was excluded from the competition shortly after.
Haris Rauf was unable to bowl that day due to a problem on his side, and Pakistan rested him in an effort to be extra cautious given the impending World Cup.
Over time, Naseem has developed into an essential bowler for Pakistan in all three formats. With 32 wickets in 14 games at under 17, he is their most effective bowler since making his ODI debut.
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