In a significant development ahead of their crucial ICC World Cup 2023 encounter against England, Pakistan received some much-needed good news regarding the availability of two key players, Shadab Khan and Haris Rauf.
Haris Rauf's rib pain
Pakistan's fiery pacer, Haris Rauf, had raised concerns with a complaint of rib pain, leading to his examination in a local hospital in Kolkata.
The MRI report, however, has cleared the young fast bowler, paving the way for his inclusion in the match against England scheduled for Saturday.
Rauf's availability comes as a significant relief to the Men in Green, who will depend on his pace and accuracy in the crucial encounter.
Shadab Khan overcomes concussion
Meanwhile, Leg-spinner Shadab Khan is also set to make his comeback after recovering from a concussion sustained during a match against South Africa.
The injury occurred when Shadab landed awkwardly on his shoulder, hitting his head on the ground while attempting to field the ball.
The talented all-rounder's absence was felt as Pakistan faced Bangladesh and New Zealand without his services. With his return on the horizon, Pakistan gains a much-needed boost to their spin department.
Pakistan's battle for knockout stage
As Pakistan prepares to face England, their path to qualification for the knockout stage in the ICC World Cup remains arduous. Currently occupying the fifth position on the points table, Pakistan must win their encounter against England on November 11 in Kolkata.
Simultaneously, they must hope for a favorable outcome in the match between Sri Lanka and New Zealand on November 9 in Bengaluru. The Men in Green also rely on Afghanistan losing one or both of their remaining matches against Australia and South Africa, as both teams currently have eight points, the same as Babar Azam's side, despite having played one less game.
