A wave of discontent is brewing among Pakistani cricketers regarding the treatment of fast bowler Haris Rauf by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This follows the PCB’s decision to terminate Rauf’s central contract and deny him No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for foreign leagues as punishment for his refusal to tour Australia for Test matches.
Cricket Pakistan sources close to the team reveal widespread displeasure among players, who argue that forcing Haris Rauf, primarily a white-ball specialist, into Test cricket without an ongoing series lacks justification.
The timing of the decision, made just before the Pakistan Super League (PSL), has also raised eyebrows.
Fingers point at PCB chief selector:
Some players reportedly suspect Chief Selector Wahab Riaz played a role in the perceived punishment. This discontent has even prompted discussions about seeking a meeting with the new PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, to address their concerns.
Haris Rauf had initially agreed to tour Australia but later backed out citing fitness concerns and workload worries. The PCB, left in a lurch, had to field an inexperienced pace attack, contributing to their 3-0 Test series loss.
Pakistan Cricket in turmoil
The PCB maintains it followed due process, conducting a hearing before reaching the decision. It emphasizes that representing Pakistan in Tests is an honor, and Rauf’s refusal without a valid reason constituted a contractual violation.
Interestingly, Rauf was granted permission to play in the Big Bash League despite the PCB’s action. This apparent inconsistency further fuels the players’ concerns.
Uncertain future for Haris Rauf and Player-PCB relations
Rauf’s future career path remains uncertain, while the discontent among players highlights tensions between them and the PCB. Whether the new Chairman can address these concerns and mend the relationship remains to be seen.
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