Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi To Be Rested For UAE Tri Series: Reports

As the West Indies tour comes to an end, Pakistan cricket fans don’t have to wait much longer. Word is that the squads for the UAE tri-nation series and Asia Cup 2025 will be announced soon.

Sources close to the team suggest that the tri-series, which includes Afghanistan and UAE, might be the chance to bring back some of the recent talents. PCB is considering resting some of the key bowlers. Fast bowler Salman Mirza and all-rounder Ahmed Daniyal, who impressed in the series against Bangladesh, are likely to be in the mix. They can add depth to Pakistan’s bowling.

But there is a strategic element at play. Star fast bowlers Shaheen Shah Afridi and Haris Rauf will sit out the tri-series. This will give opportunity to newer players to prove themselves. This is part of the workload management plan as both Shaheen and Haris will be key players for Pakistan in the Asia Cup. The team will need them to be at their best for the continental tournament.

PCB is prioritizing the workload of its top bowlers. Asia Cup is the focus, it starts on September 9. Pakistan will be looking for their 3rd Asia Cup title. Shaheen and Haris will join the team in UAE before the Asia Cup starts. Reports suggest that Salman Mirza and Ahmed Daniyal will be called up for the tri-series after their impressive performances against Bangladesh.

Shaheen is with the Pakistan team for the ongoing ODI series against West Indies. Haris is still recovering from the hamstring injury he sustained in the Major Cricket League (MLC).

PCB will announce the squads for the tri-nation series and Asia Cup in the coming week. Tri-series starts on August 29 at Sharjah Cricket Stadium with Pakistan vs Afghanistan. Each team will play the other twice, top two teams will play the final on September 7.

For Pakistan, the matches in Sharjah are more than just preparation. They are a chance to try out the combinations, evaluate the squad depth and send a message to the opponents before the Asia Cup.

Here is Pakistan’s schedule for the Tri-Series in UAE: