Akif Javed Ruled Out: Ali Raza Called Up for Pakistan Shaheens at Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026

Pakistan Shaheens have taken a major blow just days before the Asia Cup Rising Stars 2026. Left-arm pacer Akif Javed has been ruled out with a knee injury, and the PCB has moved fast to name Ali Raza as his replacement for the tournament in Doha.

Akif Javed Out With Knee Injury

Akif was part of the original squad for the eight-team competition. However, a knee problem has ended his hopes of featuring in Qatar.

Medical reports and an MRI scan confirmed the injury. The PCB has decided not to take any risks with the bowler’s fitness.

Akif had continued to experience discomfort, which made the selectors rethink their plans. With the tournament so important, the selection committee chose to leave him out rather than risk making the problem worse.

Recovery Plan at the NCA

The PCB medical team has asked Akif to complete a proper rehabilitation program, along with strength and conditioning work. He has been advised to finish his recovery before returning to action.

His comeback will follow a step-by-step bowling program at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore. The PCB Medical Department will closely monitor his progress throughout.

Ali Raza Gets His Big Chance

Pakistan’s selectors have named Ali Raza as the replacement. The young fast bowler is currently representing Pakistan in the ongoing ACC Men’s U19 Asia Cup 2026.

Now he gets a chance to step up to the Rising Stars stage. For a young pacer, it is a significant opportunity on a big platform.

The timing adds pressure, but also excitement. Replacing a left-arm pace option means the Shaheens’ bowling combination may need some adjusting, and Raza will be eager to make an immediate impact.

Defending Champions Face a Tough Group

The ACC Rising Stars Asia Cup 2026 will be played in Doha from November 19 to 29. Defending champions Pakistan Shaheens will be led by Abdul Samad.

Pakistan sit in Group B alongside India, Nepal and the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The top two teams from each group will advance to the semi-finals.

Shaheens Fixtures at a Glance

The Shaheens open against the UAE on November 20. Then comes the blockbuster against arch-rivals India on November 22, before the group stage closes against Nepal on November 24.

Updated Pakistan Shaheens Squad

Here is the revised 15-member squad for the tournament, including Ali Raza.

What This Means for Pakistan

Losing a frontline fast bowler is never ideal, especially in a short tournament where every game counts. Yet the PCB’s cautious approach shows a clear focus on long-term fitness over a quick fix.

For Pakistan, the plan is simple: defend the title and keep the winning run alive. With a high-pressure meeting against India looming on November 22, Ali Raza could quickly find himself in the spotlight.

All eyes will now be on how the Shaheens adapt in Doha, and whether the new pace option can make his mark.