Haris Rauf Loses PCB Central Contract for Skipping Australia Tests for BBL Stint
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday terminated the central contract of fast bowler Haris Rauf, citing his refusal to join the national Test squad for the recent tour of Australia in favor of participating in the Big Bash League (BBL).
Rauf, a 30-year-old specializing in limited-overs cricket, opted out of the three-match Test series against Australia held between December 14, 2023, and January 7, 2024, to fulfill his commitment to the Melbourne Stars in the BBL.
This decision triggered a standoff with the PCB, which initially denied him permission to participate in the franchise league.
A compromise was eventually reached, allowing Rauf a limited BBL appearance before rejoining the Pakistan squad for the subsequent five-match T20 series against New Zealand in January.
However, the PCB ultimately deemed his decision to prioritize the BBL over Test selection a violation of his central contract.
“Haris’ central contract has been terminated from December 1, 2023,” the PCB stated in a press release. “No objection certificate (NOC) to play any foreign league will be granted up to June 30, 2024.”
The release further clarified that Rauf was offered a fair hearing on January 30, 2024, to present his case, but his response was deemed “unsatisfactory.”
“Refusal to be part of Pakistan’s Test squad in the absence of any medical report or justifiable reason is a material violation of the central contract,” the PCB emphasized.
This decision effectively bars Rauf from representing Pakistan in any format until June 30, 2024, further hindering his limited participation in Test cricket.
He has only featured in one Test match for Pakistan since making his debut in 2020, with his focus heavily leaning towards white-ball formats and franchise leagues.
The termination of Rauf’s contract serves as a strong message from the PCB regarding its commitment to prioritizing national team commitments over individual player preferences.
It remains to be seen how this development will impact Rauf’s future with the Pakistan national team and his career trajectory in the coming months.
