Pacer Haris Rauf of Pakistan may lose his current contract and not be allowed to play in the Big Bash League. If he chooses not to participate in the three-match Test series in Australia that begins next month. According to a trustworthy source, a few high-ranking officials within the Pakistan Cricket Board expressed dissatisfaction with both Haris s demeanor and the remarks made by his Lahore Qalandars coach, Aqib Javed, who supported the fast bowler. Wahab Riaz, Pakistan’s new chief selector, took aim at Haris on Monday for initially agreeing to be considered for the Tests in Australia. But then withdrawing two days later due to fitness and workload issues.
Haris Rauf faces the risk of being downgraded in his central contract
As a fast bowler who played in three World Cups, Wahab made it obvious that Haris. A player under central contract, ought to have been able to play in the Test series.
“I and the Director of Pakistan team, Muhammad Hafeez, we went and spoke to him in detail. We told harish that both the captain and coach wanted him to play in Australia. As he was an impact bowler. We assured him he would not bowl more then 10-12 overs in a day in Australia” . Wahab had said at his press conference while announcing the squad for Australia.
“We also spoke to the team physio and trainer and they said Haris had no fitness issues. And there would be no problem with him in Australia,” Wahab said.
A few hours later, reports in the Pakistani media citing Haris claimed that he had informed the selectors. He wanted to concentrate on white ball cricket and manage his workload. And that he had never made himself available for the Tests.
“There has been discussion that if Haris is only focused on white ball cricket then the central contact given to him also needs to be reviewed since he was placed in category B which carries a monthly retainer of over 4 million rupees plus enhanced match fees, bonuses and a share in the PCB’s share of ICC revenues.
“Those players were given top two categories who were considered all format players,” the source said.
According to him, the board might ask Haris for his final red ball cricket decision and amend the contract. Alternatively, the player could choose to become a free agent and give the board back the central contract. As has been the case with other international players like Trent Bolt, Jason Roy, and others.
For more cricket updates, make sure to follow us on:
