Ali Raza replaces injured Akif Javed in Pakistan Shaheens squad

LAHORE: Pakistan have made a change to their squad for the ACC Men’s Asia Cup Rising Stars Championship 2026, bringing in promising fast bowler Ali Raza after Akif Javed was ruled out of the tournament with a knee injury.

According to reliable sources, Akif’s MRI scan revealed an injury on Monday, forcing the team management to withdraw him from the competition to avoid aggravating the problem.

The left-arm pacer has been advised to stay away from competitive cricket until he regains full fitness. He will undergo rehabilitation at the National Cricket Academy (NCA), where his recovery and eventual return to bowling will be managed through a gradual programme.

Ali Raza will now join Pakistan Shaheens as they prepare to defend their title in the eight-team tournament, scheduled to take place in Doha, Qatar, from November 19 to 29.

The inclusion of the young fast bowler provides Pakistan with an additional pace option ahead of a challenging campaign featuring some of the region’s emerging cricketing talent.

Pakistan have been placed in Group B alongside arch-rivals India, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Nepal, setting up an exciting group-stage contest for the defending champions.

The Shaheens will begin their campaign against the UAE on November 20 before facing India in one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches on November 22.

Their final group-stage fixture will be against Nepal on November 24, with Pakistan aiming to secure a place in the knockout rounds.

The competition features eight teams divided into two groups, with the top two sides from each group advancing to the semi-finals.

The knockout stage will begin with the semi-finals on November 26 and 27, while the tournament’s final is scheduled for November 29.

With the title defence approaching, Pakistan will hope Ali Raza can make an immediate impact and strengthen their pace attack as the Shaheens prepare for a demanding tournament in Qatar.

Meanwhile, Akif’s recovery will remain a priority for the team management, with the pacer expected to resume bowling only after completing his rehabilitation and achieving full fitness.