Pakistan cricket team has been hit by back-to-back injury blows ahead of the upcoming series against Bangladesh and West Indies.
Fast bowler Haris Rauf has suffered a grade-one hamstring strain during the ongoing Major League Cricket (MLC) in the United States, where he was representing the San Francisco Unicorns. His team has confirmed that he is now unfit to continue in the league. New Zealand pacer Ben Lister has been named as his replacement in the squad.
Rauf had been in outstanding form, currently leading the tournament in wickets. His injury has not only ended his MLC campaign but has also put his availability for the Bangladesh tour in doubt. Team management is monitoring his condition closely, but full recovery may take time and he will need medical clearance before returning to the national side.
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Meanwhile, T20 vice-captain and experienced all-rounder Shadab Khan underwent successful surgery on his right shoulder in the UK. The procedure was recommended after he experienced persistent pain and discomfort.
Following the surgery, Shadab shared a picture from his hospital bed and wrote on social media: “Alhamdulillah, the surgery went well. Recovery and rehab up next. Request you to keep me in your prayers.”
Alhamdulilah the surgery went well. Recovery & rehab up next, request you to keep me in your prayers. pic.twitter.com/CsUAW8CLE8
— Shadab Khan (@76Shadabkhan) July 5, 2025
Shadab is expected to be sidelined for at least three months due to rehabilitation. This rules him out of Pakistan’s upcoming white-ball series against Bangladesh and the West Indies, and his participation in the Asia Cup in September is also uncertain.
These fitness concerns come at a critical time for Pakistan, with key international fixtures approaching in the lead-up to the T20 World Cup 2026 preparations.
