Haris Rauf’s lower chest wall injury during Pakistan’s tri-series match against New Zealand on February 8 was an unpleasant surprise for Pakistani supporters. The great pacer has been rested as a precaution even though the ailment isn’t serious.
There are questions over his availability for the forthcoming ICC Champions Trophy 2025 because he would miss Pakistan’s pivotal match against South Africa on February 12. However, Rauf should recuperate in time for the major competition, which begins on February 19.
Akif Javed has been called up by Pakistan’s management to take Haris Rauf’s spot. Who is this Akif Javed, then? Let’s examine it more closely.
Akif Javed: Who Is He?
Although the 24-year-old Akif Javed is not yet well-known, he has been subtly creating ripples in Pakistan’s home scene. Akif is a true wicket-taker who enjoys a challenge and is well-known for his speed and two-way swing. He has very good First-Class, List A, and T20 cricket stats.
Akif Javed has taken 52 wickets at an average of 43.53 in 23 First-Class matches, with his highest total being 4/67. With a top of 5/60 and 33 wickets in 30 games, he has been very successful in List A cricket.
In the simplest format, however, his results really stand out. With 84 wickets in 68 games at an average of 23.53 and an economy rate of 8.23, Akif has been a standout performer in T20 cricket.
🚨 Akif Javed is likely to replace Haris Rauf for the Tri-nation series. (Qadir Khawaja) pic.twitter.com/1WHP0aW5HD
— 𝙎𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞 (@CallMeSheri1) February 10, 2025
The heroics of Akif Javed for the Rangpur Riders in the Bangladesh Premier League
His recent success in the Bangladesh Premier League (BPL) 2024–25 is what has truly put him in the discussion. Akif was in outstanding form when playing for the Rangpur Riders, taking 20 wickets at an incredible average of 14.30 in just 11 games. He can be extremely deadly in the middle overs, as seen by his best statistics of 4/32 and economy rate of 6.89.
On February 12, when Pakistan plays South Africa in a quarterfinal match, all eyes will be on Akif Javed. This is not your typical debut chance, and the stakes are high. He has the opportunity to demonstrate that he is a part of the great stage.
In Haris Rauf’s absence, Pakistan’s bowling attack will require potency, and Akif may be the decisive element that helps them guarantee a position in the last match against New Zealand on February 14.
