LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to terminate fast bowler Haris Rauf’s central contract with the national team following his refusal to join Pakistan’s Test squad for the tour of Australia 2023-24.
In a statement, PCB stated that a thorough probe was conducted into Rauf’s decision, leading to the termination of his central contract effective from December 1, 2023. Additionally, Rauf has been denied a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in any foreign leagues until June 30, 2024.
The decision was reached after a committee formed by the PCB conducted a comprehensive hearing process, considering the perspectives of all stakeholders involved in the matter. Rauf was provided with the opportunity for a personal hearing on January 30, 2024, but his response was deemed unsatisfactory by the PCB management.
The PCB emphasized that representing Pakistan is a significant honor for any athlete and that Rauf’s refusal to be part of the Test squad without a valid medical report or justifiable reason constitutes a serious breach of his central contract.
Criticism on Haris Rauf
Rauf’s decision to prioritize participation in the Big Bash League (BBL) over the Test series against Australia, despite concerns raised by the Pakistan team’s physio regarding his fitness, drew criticism from various quarters. The 30-year-old cited workload and fitness concerns as reasons for his withdrawal, despite being cleared of any injury concerns by the team physio.
Having only participated in one Test match to date and with limited experience in first-class cricket, Rauf’s decision sparked controversy, particularly as centrally contracted players are expected to be unconditionally available for national team duties. Chief Selector Wahab Riaz and former cricketers also criticized Rauf for his refusal to play the longer format.
