Shoulder injury forces Haris Rauf to miss PSL 9

• Medical panel concludes Rauf needs 4-6 weeks to recover.
• Shaheen Afridi says Haris Rauf’s absence truly painful.
• We don't want to risk Rauf's national prospects: Sameen Rana.

Fast bowler Haris Rauf has been ruled out of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) season 9 after his shoulder dislocated while taking a catch in the 20th over during a narrow defeat against Karachi Kings Saturday night.

The Lahore Qalandars’ prime bowler fell awkwardly on his shoulder while successfully grabbing a catch to dismiss Hasan Ali in the final over. 

Rauf gave an extraordinary performance in the match against the Kings, bowling the most economical four overs for his team, conceding 22 runs with one wicket.

In a press release, Qalandars said that the medical panel, after consultation, concluded that he needed four to six weeks to recover. Therefore, he will miss the rest of the PSL season.

Lahore Qalandars Director Sameen Rana said Haris had been a crucial asset to the team's bowling attack, and his absence would be felt. 

“It’s not a major injury or any broken bone, but considering him as a valuable asset for Pakistan, we didn't want to risk his national prospects. Lahore Qalandars remain determined and focused on delivering strong performances in the remaining PSL matches,” he added.

Skipper Shaheen Afridi stated, “As a team, we are deeply saddened by Haris Rauf's injury. It was painful to see him missing out as he's been a pillar of strength for us, and his absence will be felt. In the face of adversity, we stand united, and I have full confidence that the team will rise to the occasion.

“It's indeed a setback for the franchise, but he is also Pakistan's main bowler, and with a lot of cricket coming up, a pragmatic approach was to give him maximum time to recover. Wishing him a speedy recovery, and we eagerly await his return to the field stronger than ever. Our thoughts and support are with him during this challenging time.”