Hosts Pakistan are feeling pretty good as they gear up for their ICC Men's Champions Trophy opener against New Zealand on February 19 in Karachi. Pacer Haris Rauf is back in action after recovering from his injury, making him available for the first match of the tournament. According to PTI, he had a muscular strain in his lower chest wall during the recent tri-series opener against the Kiwis.

Now that he's fit, he’s ready to be picked for Wednesday’s game against the BlackCaps.

Pakistan is in Group A of the Champions Trophy, sharing the stage with India, New Zealand, and Bangladesh.

“Haris is doing well now, and the rest he got after the first match of the Tri-Series really helped him bounce back,” a source told PTI.

It's worth noting that Haris stayed with the team even though he couldn't play in the Tri-Series match against South Africa or the final against New Zealand. Uncapped speedster Akif Javed was brought in as his backup.

How has Haris Rauf been doing in ODIs?

Haris Rauf has bagged 83 wickets in 46 ODIs and has also claimed 110 wickets in 79 T20 internationals.

Recently, Mohammad Amir voiced his worries about Haris Rauf's fitness, mentioning that if the fast bowler has a side strain, he might be sidelined for up to six weeks.

“If Haris Rauf is dealing with a side strain, he won’t be fully fit for at least six weeks. If it’s just some stiffness, that’s a different story,” Amir explained. “For a grade one or two side strain, it’s a six-week recovery, and then he’ll need rehab,” he added, according to GeoSuper.tv.

“I faced a similar injury during the PSL a couple of years back. If it’s a grade one or two side strain, I doubt he’ll be ready for the Champions Trophy. It would be unwise to jeopardize his career for just three matches in a tournament when he can’t perform at his best,” Amir concluded.

Pakistan is set to face India on February 23 in Dubai, followed by their last group-stage game against Bangladesh on February 27.

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