Haris Rauf Cites Fitness and Workload Concerns
Fast bowler Haris Rauf’s decision to withdraw from the three-Test series against Australia in favor of participating in the Big Bash League (BBL) has stirred controversy in Pakistani cricket circles.
Former fast bowler turned chief selector, Wahab Riaz, expressed his disappointment, citing Rauf’s abrupt change of mind on the eve of the squad announcement. He also expressed his discontent with Haris’ decison to not be willing to play for his nation.
Last-Minute Decision Raises Eyebrows
Riaz disclosed that Rauf initially agreed to be part of the Test series during a conversation two days before the squad reveal. However, the night before the announcement, Rauf cited concerns about his body, fitness, and workload, leading to his sudden withdrawal.
Riaz emphasized the importance of honesty with officials, saying, “I’m revealing this because we should be honest with officials, teammates, and the public.”
“(Head coach) Mohammad Hafeez and I sat with him and tried to facilitate him in every way. We told him even if he didn’t perform well there, we would accept it.”
Reassurances from Selectors
Rauf’s concerns about workload and fitness were addressed by the selectors, who assured him a limited role as an impact bowler. The plan was for Haris Rauf to bowl a handful of overs per day in short spells, with the team’s physio expressing confidence in managing any potential fatigue.
Despite these assurances, Rauf chose to make himself unavailable, a decision that Riaz believes will have a negative impact on Pakistan cricket. Rauf had a bad run at World Cup tournament held in India, he conceded most runs by an bowler as his pace seemed uncontrolled at the biggest stage of the game.
ESPNcricinfo reported Rauf’s denial of ever making himself available for the Test series initially. According to their sources, Rauf only confirmed his unavailability to Riaz the night before the squad announcement. This conflicting information adds a layer of complexity to the situation.
With injuries to key bowlers and favorable conditions for quicks in Australia, Haris Rauf was in a prime position to earn a Test recall. However, his decision to prioritize T20 cricket in the BBL over representing Pakistan in Tests has resulted in selectors turning to Khurram Shahzad for his international debut.
Wahab Riaz expressed disappointment at Rauf’s decision, saying, “At a time when our three main high-pace bowlers, who can bowl over 140 (km/h) are unavailable, at some point you need to sacrifice to play for your country.” Riaz believes that Rauf’s commitment was wavering, leading to his withdrawal after being initially on board for the Test series.
Pakistan has Made Some Leadership Changes
After Pakistan failed to make apperance at World Cup semifinals, a number of suprising decisions were made. With long-time skipper Babar Azam relinquishing the captaincy across all formats after missing the World Cup finals.
Shan Masood has been confirmed as the new captain, leading the side through the next World Test Championship cycle until the end of 2025.
