Pakistan chances of reaching the final of the ICC World Test Championship have taken a hit with news that fast bowler Haris Rauf will miss the remainder of the ongoing series against England due to injury.
Rauf hurt his right quad while fielding on the opening day of the first Test in Rawalpindi and failed to bowl during England's second innings as the visitors clinched a thrilling 74-run victory over Pakistan.
The right-armer was sent for an MRI during the Test match and scans showed a grade two strain that will sideline the 29-year-old for the remainder of the three-match series.
"A grade-II strain in right quad has ruled Haris Rauf out of the Test series against England," the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed in a release.
"The fast bowler underwent an MRI during the first day’s play of the Rawalpindi Test after he rolled over the ball while fielding.
"The scans and the subsequent assessment by the PCB medical panel concluded that the fast bowler suffered a grade-II strain.
"Haris will travel to Lahore where he will begin his rehabilitation at the National High Performance Centre."
Pakistan's loss to England in the first Test saw the Asian side slip further behind the top two teams in the race to feature in next year's World Test Championship final at The Oval.
Australia is in pole position to reach next year's decider as they sit on top of the standings with a 72.73 win-percentage, while Pakistan languish in fifth with a 46.67 win-percentage.
Pakistan have two Tests remaining at home against England and then host New Zealand in a two-Test series over the Christmas and new year period.
A replacement player for Rauf is yet to be named by Pakistan.
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