Pakistan has been rocked by a massive injury scare of Haris Rauf ahead of the crucial Champions Trophy 2025. Rauf picked up the injury during Pakistan's first fixture of the tri-series against New Zealand and walked off the field in the 36th over after experiencing a muscular sprain in the lower chest wall region. Rauf has been in exceptional form in the past few months and his injury has now left the PCB scrambling for a viable replacement on short notice. 

See also: SL vs AUS Dream11 Prediction 1st ODI Match Fantasy Cricket Tips, Probable Playing XI

Although PCB remains hopeful of a swift recovery from Rauf, here are three front runners that have emerged as the likely candidates to replace Haris Rauf in the Pakistan squad ahead of the marquee event.

Mohammed Wasim Jnr. 

The 24-year-old Wasim has a demonstrated track record of performing well in ICC events. He finished as the third-highest wicket-taker for Pakistan in the 2023 ODI World Cup claiming 10 wickets across four matches at a stunning average of 21.5. His best performance included figures of 3-31 against Bangladesh. His exploits with the ball in that game helped Pakistan dismiss Bangladesh for only 206 thus setting up a crushing win for his side. In addition, Wasim has played for Pakistan in all three formats but is perhaps seen as a highly skilled operator in the ODI format where he has taken 34 wickets averaging nearly 25. 

Mir Hamza

Hamza is another capable bowler who can leave a mark in the tournament. Although Hamza has only represented Pakistan in the longest format, Pakistan can put his skills to the test in the limited overs format too. Hamza is naturally tall and being a left-arm pacer, Hamza certainly brings something different to the table. His red-ball stats do not paint an accurate picture of his true potential with the ball. His average is well above 40 in the Test format but has thrived on the bouncy pitches of Australia where he dismissed Travis Head cheaply in a few instances. Besides, he has claimed 132 wickets in List-A cricket and seven four-wicket hauls in 94 matches. 

Akif Javed

As per widespread reports, it is believed that young left-arm pacer Akif Javed has emerged as a prime candidate to be included in the team above the rest of the other options discussed above. The 24-year-old has a plethora of experience playing franchise cricket in the PSL and the BPL. A renowned figure in the domestic circuit, Akif has been silently gaining traction following Rauf's on-field injury. Known for his pace and ability to swing the ball both ways, Akif is a genuine wicket-taker and is always up for the challenge. His numbers in First-Class, List A, and T20 cricket are mighty impressive. In List A cricket, Akif has bagged 33 wickets in 30 matches with a best of 5/60. But his numbers truly stand apart in the shortest format. In T20 cricket, Akif has been an exceptional performer with 84 wickets in 68 matches at an average of 23.53 and an economy rate of 8.23.