IND vs PAK: “100% fit” Haris Rauf has no pressure facing India in ICC Champions Trophy

The Pakistan cricket team arrived in Dubai on February 20 and had a training session on February 21.

Cricket fans around the world are gearing up for one of the most electrifying clashes in the ICC Champions Trophy—India vs Pakistan. But for Pakistan’s fiery pacer Haris Rauf, it’s just another game. After a tough loss to New Zealand in their opening match, Pakistan face a must-win scenario against their biggest rivals. India, on the other hand, comes into this encounter with confidence, fresh off a dominant six-wicket victory over Bangladesh, where Shubman Gill stole the show with an unbeaten century.

Haris Rauf keeps things simple for IND vs PAK clash

Despite the enormous hype, Rauf is keeping things simple. “There is no pressure in the match against India, all the players are relaxed and we will take it just like any other match. We have beaten India in Dubai twice before, so we know the conditions here very well. Our entire game plan will depend on the conditions and pitch on match day.” Rauf told reporters on February 21 before Pakistan’s practice session at ICC Academy. Rauf called back Pakistan’s win over India in Dubai. He referred to the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2021 triumph and one during an Asia Cup clash.

Rauf’s fitness has been a concern, but the speedster insists he’s ready to go. After bowling a full quota of 10 overs against New Zealand, he’s confident about delivering a strong performance when it matters most. Rauf had a side strain during a tri-series match against the Kiwis and was rested for the entire series. However, he looked in a great rhythm in the Champions Trophy opener.

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Pakistan does have some setbacks, though. Missing key batters Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman is a big blow, and Rauf acknowledges the challenge. “Yes, the absence of Saim Ayub and now Fakhar Zaman is a big setback for us in the Champions Trophy. But we still have the players to perform well and take us through in this event,” 

Haris Rauf ODI record vs India