Huge blow for Pakistan! Star pacer doubtful for clash against England in 2023 ODI World Cup

Star pacer Haris Rauf is doubtful for Pakistan’s crucial 2023 ODI World Cup match against England at the Eden Gardens in Kolkata on November 11. Rauf was taken to a local hospital in Kolkata after being examined for a possible rib sprain. Although Rauf hasn’t done well in the tournament so far, his absence will be a huge loss for Pakistan as the outcome of the upcoming game will decide their future.

Rauf had left the field during the match against New Zealand in Bengaluru on November 4 as he complained of discomfort in his ribs. The 30-year-old, along with Fakhar Zaman, Mohammad Wasim, and Zaman Khan, visited Woodlands Hospital in Kolkata on Monday. Rauf underwent an MRI scan of his ribs, but thankfully the report showed nothing too serious. The other three players came for regular check-ups, the hospital sources said.

Rauf has struggled to live up to the hype so far in the ongoing World Cup, with impressive performances against the Netherlands (3/43) and Bangladesh (2/36). In their last match against the Black Caps, the right-arm pacer took just one wicket conceding 85 runs in 10 overs. He has taken 13 wickets at an average of 36.08 in 8 matches and is currently 10th on the list of leading wicket-takers.

How can Pakistan qualify for semis?

Pakistan started their World Cup campaign with two wins but then suffered back-to-back defeats to put them in jeopardy. With four wins and eight points, the Men in Green are currently fifth on the points table. A 21-run win over New Zealand kept them in the hunt, but that doesn’t guarantee them a spot in the last four.

If Pakistan manages to defeat England in the next match, they will have 10 points. But they should also ensure to finish with a better net run rate (NRR) as at least two of the other teams (Australia, New Zealand, Afghanistan) can also finish on 10 points. If they lose the match, they will need to rely on other teams a significant help from NRR.