Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi expressed concern over out-of-favour speedster Haris Rauf struggling with the ball in recent months and said he should seek proper guidance. Rauf's barren run started during last year's World Cup, claiming 16 wickets in 9 matches, but runs leaked during the campaign. He bowled 49 overs and ultimately conceded 346 runs. He subsequently missed Pakistan's Test tour of Australia to participate in the Big Bash League.
He returned to the side during Pakistan's recent 4-1 T20I series defeat against New Zealand. He claimed seven wickets in four matches and conceded 162 runs. Afridi expressed concern over Rauf's form, stating that he could not understand why the 30-year-old was struggling with his bowling.
“Right now, Haris Rauf seems to be struggling with his bowling, and I don't quite understand it. He needs honest help at the moment, the guidance of seniors is necessary because we shouldn't sideline him completely,” Afridi said while speaking with a local news channel, as quoted from Geo News.
Afridi acknowledged Rauf's potential and his past contributions that resulted in 'great success' for the Pakistan team.
“He has put in some fantastic performances for Pakistan. That boy will get even better when he plays cricket in the longer term. If he plays four-day cricket, his bowling will automatically improve, but right now he needs our support,” Afridi added to it. .
The Asian giants showed moments of brilliance, but the series was ultimately glossed 3-0. Following his refusal to take part in the Test series against Australia, Rauf's contract was terminated by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) last week.
“The Haris central contract will be terminated on December 1, 2023 and there is no NOC [no objection certificate] playing a foreign competition is allowed until June 30, 2024,” the PCB said in a statement.
According to the statement, PCB management on January 30 offered Rauf an opportunity for a personal hearing, in accordance with the principles of natural justice, and his response was found unsatisfactory.
Rauf has played one Test, 37 ODIs and 66 T20Is for Pakistan. He has 160 international wickets to his name.
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