Pakistan Pacer Haris Rauf Declines Participation in Australia Test Matches

• Haris Rauf withdraws from Australia Test series citing fitness concerns.
• Chief Selector Wahab Riaz disappointed by Rauf’s sudden decision.
• Pakistan faces bowling challenges without Rauf in the upcoming Australia series.

In a surprising turn of events, Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf has withdrawn from the upcoming Test series against Australia, citing worries about fitness and workload. Pakistan Chief Selector Wahab Riaz revealed this during a press conference in Lahore, expressing disappointment over Rauf’s decision and highlighting its potential impact on Pakistan cricket.

Riaz stated that just two days ago, Rauf had given his consent to play in the Test series, but he changed his mind suddenly. The pacer expressed concerns about fitness issues and workload, despite assurances from the team management that they would facilitate him and accommodate any potential challenges. The team’s physio reportedly confirmed that Rauf had no injury concerns, though he acknowledged some fatigue that could have been managed effectively.

The selectors had envisioned Rauf as an impact player in Test cricket, aiming to utilize his skills strategically with a limited workload of 10-12 overs per day. Riaz emphasized the need for players to sacrifice for the team, especially in a situation where key frontline Test bowlers, all capable of bowling at 140+, were unavailable due to fitness issues.

Haris Rauf has only played one Test match for Pakistan, making his debut against England last year in Rawalpindi. His absence adds to the challenges faced by Pakistan’s bowling lineup ahead of the Australia series.

Shan Masood will lead the Pakistan team during the series, which kicks off with the first Test in Perth on December 14. The squad announcement includes notable names like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Hasan Ali. The selectors have added Saim Ayub to the squad based on his exceptional domestic performance, aiming to strengthen the team’s batting lineup.

Pakistan Chief Selector Wahab Riaz expressed optimism about the team’s performance in Australia, acknowledging the challenging conditions and emphasizing the inclusion of more pace bowling resources to provide flexibility in team combinations.

The Pakistan squad is set to assemble in Rawalpindi on November 22 for a training camp before flying out to Australia on November 30. The tour comprises three Tests scheduled for Perth, Melbourne, and Sydney, taking place on December 14-18, December 26-30, and January 3-7, respectively.

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