Pakistan’s bowling coach Morne Morkel reckons losing Naseem Shah is a huge blow to the team ahead of the virtual semifinal against Sri Lanka in the ongoing Asia Cup 2023. Shah picked seven wickets in four matches of the ongoing continental tournament before he was ruled out of the competition.

The right-arm fast bowler suffered a right shoulder injury while playing against India in the Super Fours stage match on Monday. Furthermore, Haris Rauf has also been ruled out of the clash against Sri Lanka due to a niggle.

Rauf has picked up nine wickets in four matches of the ongoing tournament and both of these pacers will be deeply missed by Pakistan.

“Obviously, it is a big blow (absence of Naseem). It is unfortunate that he picked some little niggles. But what a fantastic opportunity for the guys you know coming in. After going down against India, it’s a must-win game for us tomorrow. I’m quite excited to see new guys stepping in and showing some character,” said Morkel during the pre-match press conference.

“After the India match, we were bitterly disappointed. For me, it is very important for the bowlers to do a bit of self-reflection, ask yourself the hard questions. Yes, credit must also go to the Indian batters,” the former South Africa speedster further added.

“They put us under pressure early. Those are fantastic lessons for us before the World Cup. We are gonna grow from this and come back stronger,” Morkel concluded.

Meanwhile, after losing against India by a gargantuan margin of 228 runs, Pakistan will aim to make a stronger comeback against Sri Lanka. Pakistan have made as many as five changes to their playing XI for the match against the Island team.

Pakistan will surely miss the services of Naseem Shah and Haris Rauf but Mohammad Wasim Jr and Zaman Khan will aim to grab their chances in a must-win game.