Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf viewed his injury layoff before the ICC T20 World Cup 2024 as a blessing in disguise. After missing the Australia Test series in December 2023 following the World Cup. Rauf sustained another injury during this year’s Pakistan Super League. In response, Pakistan held a training camp focused on player fitness, which Rauf attended.

The right-arm fast bowler returned to the national team, joining regulars Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, and the returning Mohammed Amir. Ahead of the abandoned 3rd T20I against England, Rauf discussed the benefits of his recent break from the game.

“I’ve been injured for the past few months, but if you have faith in yourself, the layoff may end up being a blessing in disguise,” said Rauf to the press.

“After having time to recover and analyze my game plans, I felt good about coming back to the pitch. There is always a sense of pride that comes with representing the country,” he continued.

Rauf missed the home series against New Zealand and the away series against Ireland, but he will be eager to perform in the upcoming T20 World Cup. His raw pace could be a double-edged sword for Pakistan on the flat pitches of the United States. Rauf acknowledged that maintaining his peak pace and accuracy during the recovery process was challenging, but he expressed confidence in regaining his best form soon.

“Returning from injury can be a significant challenge. The rehab process is a constant struggle, and regaining your previous pace and precision is difficult. However, self-belief can make the journey easier. While focusing on recovery, I had ample opportunity to reflect on my game and work on personal improvements. Now, I’m grateful to be back in the team, with the T20 World Cup just around the corner,” he further stated.

Pakistan kick off their T20 World Cup campaign against USA on June 6 in Texas.

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