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Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has been ruled out of the remainder of the 2025 Major League Cricket (MLC) season after suffering a Grade 1 hamstring injury during San Francisco Unicorns’ recent match against the Texas Super Kings.
The news was officially confirmed by the San Francisco Unicorns via social media:
“We’re with you, Haris. The San Francisco Unicorns can confirm Haris Rauf will miss the remainder of #MLC2025 with a hamstring injury, with New Zealand pace bowler Ben Lister to replace him, effective immediately.”
Rauf’s Impact on MLC 2025
Before the injury setback, Rauf was in top form, leading the wicket-taking charts of MLC 2025. His impressive stats include:
- 17 wickets in 8 matches
- Economy rate: 9.08
His pace and wicket-taking ability were vital for the Unicorns’ success in the league. The team will now turn to Ben Lister, the left-arm pacer from New Zealand, to fill the gap for the remainder of the tournament.
Pakistan Duties Now in Doubt
Rauf’s injury casts serious doubt over his availability for Pakistan’s upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh, scheduled later this month.
Pakistan’s Bangladesh Tour Schedule:
- Arrival in Bangladesh: July 16
- 1st T20I: July 20, Shere-e-Bangla National Cricket Stadium
- 2nd T20I: July 22
- 3rd T20I: July 24
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has not yet released an official statement on Rauf’s recovery timeline or rehabilitation plan. However, a Grade 1 hamstring strain typically requires 2–3 weeks of rest and physiotherapy, making his inclusion in the Bangladesh series increasingly unlikely.
What’s Next for Haris Rauf?
If Rauf’s recovery takes the expected duration, his next opportunity to return to international cricket might be Pakistan’s white-ball tour of the West Indies in August, which includes:
- 3 ODIs
- 3 T20Is
However, his participation will depend on medical clearance and match fitness, especially considering the pace-heavy nature of his role.
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Replacement: Ben Lister Joins the Unicorns
To strengthen their pace attack in Rauf’s absence, the San Francisco Unicorns have drafted in Ben Lister, a 28-year-old left-arm quick from New Zealand. Lister has previously played for the Auckland Aces and has been on the fringes of the New Zealand national side.
Known for his swing and discipline, Lister could offer a contrasting style to Rauf’s raw pace, potentially adding balance to the Unicorns’ bowling unit.
Summary
- Haris Rauf is ruled out of the rest of MLC 2025 with a Grade 1 hamstring injury.
- He leads the MLC wicket charts with 17 wickets in 8 matches.
- Ben Lister replaces Rauf in the San Francisco Unicorns squad.
- Rauf is likely to miss Pakistan’s T20I series in Bangladesh (July 20–24).
- His West Indies tour participation in August is subject to fitness clearance.
