Haris Rauf to feature in Champions Trophy opener against NZ

Pakistan are likely to make a key change to their playing XI for the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 opener, with Haris Rauf replacing Faheem Ashraf ahead of their match against New Zealand at the National Bank Stadium in Karachi on Wednesday.

Rauf, who had missed recent matches due to a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region, was declared fit to return to the side after an injury sustained during the tri-series opener against New Zealand.

The team will be led by Muhammad Rizwan, with Saud Shakeel joining Babar Azam and Fakhar Zaman at the top of the order. The middle-order will feature Tayyab Tahir, Salman Ali Agha, and Khushdil Shah.

Pakistan may opt for a pace-heavy attack, with Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, and Haris Rauf leading the bowling attack. Abrar Ahmed will be the only specialist spinner in the squad.

Pakistan’s Playing XI:

Muhammad Rizwan (C), Salman Ali Agha (VC), Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Saud Shakeel, Tayyab Tahir, Khushdil Shah, Shaheen Shah AFIDI, Naseem Shah, Haris Rauf, Abar Ahmed.