• Haris Rauf pulls out of Test series against Australia.
• Chief Selector Wahab Riaz disappointed with Rauf’s decision.
• Rauf cites lack of experience in Test cricket as reason for withdrawal.

Pakistani pacer Haris Rauf has withdrawn from the upcoming three-match Test series against Australia, just days after confirming his availability.

Newly-appointed Chief Selector Wahab Riaz expressed concern over Rauf’s last-minute decision, stating that it could potentially harm Pakistan cricket.

During a press conference to announce the 18-man squad for the series, Riaz revealed that Rauf had initially agreed to play Tests for Pakistan but had a change of heart on Sunday night. According to a report, a source close to Rauf stated that the player had never agreed to participate in Test cricket in Australia, citing his limited experience in the format.

Rauf allegedly communicated to Riaz that he believed it would be more beneficial for him to focus on improving his white-ball game and fitness rather than testing his skills in the longest format. The source claimed that Rauf emphasized his lack of experience in Test cricket and suggested working on aspects that would enhance his overall performance.

Addressing the media, Riaz expressed disappointment over Rauf’s withdrawal, citing concerns about the fitness and workload of the team’s frontline Test bowling options. Riaz mentioned that Rauf was initially willing to be an impact player in Test cricket and that the team had planned to manage his workload carefully. However, the sudden change in Rauf’s decision has left the selectors in a challenging position.

The rising tension between Rauf and the selectors, as highlighted in Riaz’s statements, could potentially impact the player’s future commitments, including his participation in the upcoming Big Bash League. Rauf would require a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to participate in the league, and the current situation may pose obstacles in obtaining the necessary clearance.

The 18-man squad announced by Riaz for the Test series includes notable players like captain Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and Shaheen Afridi. The series is set to commence on December 14 at Perth Stadium, followed by matches at the Melbourne Cricket Ground on December 26-30 and the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 3-7.

As the cricketing community awaits further developments, the unexpected twist in Rauf’s participation adds an element of uncertainty to Pakistan’s strategy against Australia in the upcoming Test series.

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