Haris Rauf declared fit for Champions Trophy opener against NZ
What's the story
Pakistan's spearhead Haris Rauf has been declared fit for the ICC Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand.
This comes as a major boost to Pakistan's bowling attack, who will be looking to defend their title.
Rauf had suffered a muscular strain in his lower chest earlier, but he has fully recovered and will be playing in the tournament's first match, reported PTI.
Here's more.
Squad update
Rauf's recovery strengthens Pakistan's bowling attack
A source from the Pakistan camp confirmed to PTI that Rauf, who had suffered a muscular strain during the recent ODI tri-series, is now fully fit.
"Haris is okay now and the rest given to him after the first match of the Tri-Series has helped him recover well," the source said to PTI.
With this, all players in the Pakistan squad are fit for upcoming matches.
Career highlights
Rauf's impressive career and concerns over his fitness
Rauf has established himself as a white-ball cricket specialist, having taken 83 wickets from 46 ODIs and 110 wickets in 79 T20 internationals.
His fitness was a concern for former Pakistan left-arm quick Muhammad Amir, who had suggested on television that a side strain usually takes five to six weeks to recover completely.
However, those concerns have been put to rest with Rauf's confirmation for the Champions Trophy opener.
Tournament schedule
Pakistan's upcoming matches in the Champions Trophy
Pakistan, who are in Group A of the Champions Trophy with India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh, will take on India on February 23 in Dubai.
Their last group-stage match against Bangladesh is on Thursday, February 27.
These upcoming matches will put Pakistan's squad's strength and resilience to the test as they look to defend their title.