Pakistan speedster bowler Haris Rauf has regained fitness and will be available for their ICC Champions Trophy fixture against New Zealand on Wednesday (February 19), news agency PTI reported.

A source within the Pakistan camp informed PTI on Sunday (February 16) that Haris, who had sustained a muscular strain in his lower chest during the recent tri-series, has recovered completely and is set to feature in the campaign opener in Karachi.

"Haris is okay now and the rest given to him after the first match of the Tri-Series has helped him recover well," the source stated, stressing that all other players in the Pakistan squad are fit.

Despite the selectors bringing in uncapped Akif Javed as cover, Haris, who is crucial to Pakistan's bowling attack with his rapid pace and wicket-taking ability during middle overs, has stayed with the squad.

Haris Rauf has played a total of 46 ODI matches so far, picking up 83 wickets. He has also claimed 110 wickets in 79 T20Is, establishing himself as a white-ball cricket specialist.

Former Pakistan pacer Mohammad Amir recently expressed his concerns about Haris' fitness. During a television programme, Amir suggested that a side strain typically needs five to six weeks for complete recovery.

Having suffered two defeats against New Zealand in the tri-series, including the final on Friday (February 14), the Men in Green are keen to change their fortunes in the Champions Trophy opener.

Pakistan are in Group A of the Champions Trophy alongside India, New Zealand and Bangladesh.