Fast bowler Haris Rauf considered
retiring from international cricket in response to criticism for opting out of
the Test series in Australia, as reported by Geo News on Monday. Chief Selector
Wahab Riaz and Team Director Mohammad Hafeez consistently criticized Rauf for
his decision to withdraw from the Test series, leaving him disheartened. Under
the weight of this critique, Rauf briefly contemplated retirement from
international cricket. However, after seeking advice from friends, he
reconsidered his decision and refocused on his cricketing career.
Former director Mickey Arthur,
recognizing Rauf's exceptional pace, actively encouraged him to join the
Australia tour during the 2023 World Cup. Despite Arthur's efforts and emphasis
on Rauf's importance as a key asset, Rauf consistently declined the
suggestions, citing limited exposure to first-class cricket and concerns about
potential injuries.
During the World Cup, the 30-year-old
fast bowler had conveyed fitness concerns to the team management, anticipating
difficulties in Test matches and emphasizing the need for thoughtful
consideration. Wahab Riaz had addressed Rauf's fitness concerns, stating that
the management had planned to bowl him ten overs a day.
Despite Rauf initially consenting to play
Tests for Pakistan, he changed his mind, expressing worries about fitness
issues and workload. The team management had assured him of facilitation and
acceptance of potential failures, with the physio confirming no injury
concerns. However, Rauf ultimately pulled out of the Australia Test series,
citing fatigue. This decision was announced by Riaz on November 20, 2023, and
was expressed as potentially detrimental to Pakistan cricket.
Rauf, who has played only one Test match
for Pakistan against England last year in Rawalpindi, found himself at the
center of controversy over his decision to withdraw from the Australia Test
series.
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