Pakistan received a significant boost ahead of their Champions Trophy opener, with captain Mohammad Rizwan confirming that fast bowler Haris Rauf is “fully fit” and ready to take on New Zealand.
“Haris bowled 6-8 overs a couple of days ago and bowled quite a bit yesterday as well,” Rizwan said at the pre-tournament press conference. “He’s bowling with full rhythm today, too. He’s also putting in work at the gym and isn’t complaining of any pains. We think he’s fully fit.”
Rauf had suffered a muscular sprain in his chest during Pakistan’s opening game of the tri-series against New Zealand on February 8. While he missed the rest of the series, sources suggest it was more of a precautionary measure rather than a serious concern.
During Pakistan’s final practice session at the National Stadium, Rauf was seen bowling in the nets, signaling his availability. This allows Pakistan to field their preferred pace attack, featuring Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Rauf. The trio played together in the tri-series but struggled in their opening match against New Zealand, whom they face again in the Champions Trophy curtain-raiser.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s journey to hosting their first ICC tournament since 1996, Rizwan acknowledged the team’s resilience. “We suffered for 10 years when no side came here,” he said. “But Pakistan still produced solid results. So we have no doubts about our ability.”
Despite this confidence, Pakistan enters the tournament as relative underdogs. New Zealand dominated them in the tri-series, winning both encounters and showcasing their strength across all departments. Even with injuries to key pacers Lockie Ferguson and Ben Sears, the Kiwis maintained their bowling depth and controlled the middle overs with their spinners.
Rizwan admitted Pakistan has areas to improve. “There are ups and downs and certain deficiencies in our side. We are aware we need to improve our professionalism and consistency,” he said.
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“We used the tri-series as a learning experience, which is why we batted first in the final to assess our weaknesses. Hopefully, we’ve made the necessary adjustments for tomorrow.”
But beyond the usual optimism, Rizwan displayed an uncommon intensity, speaking of Pakistan’s hunger to win an ICC event, especially on home soil. “We’ve come so close a few times,” he said. “We need to find that extra one per cent to win big matches and tournaments.
“Every player is desperate for this title. And we’re doing everything we can to make it happen. I don’t think any country works as hard as we do.”
While he soon returned to his usual upbeat self, emphasizing team unity over individual brilliance, his words hinted at Pakistan’s burning desire to finally cross the finish line. Perhaps, as Rizwan suggested, that extra one per cent is what they need to claim glory.
