Haris Rauf Eager for Test Cricket Return

KARACHI: Pakistani right-arm fast bowler Haris Rauf expressed his desire to play Test cricket, stating that he is awaiting an opportunity to rejoin the Test squad.

Since his debut in 2020, Rauf has been a regular member of Pakistan’s limited-overs teams, having participated in 50 One Day Internationals and 83 Twenty20 Internationals.

However, in contrast to his white-ball success, Rauf has only played in one Test match for Pakistan.

His only appearance in the format was in late 2022 against England in Rawalpindi.

During that Test, Rauf was only able to bowl 13 overs, claiming one wicket before suffering a quad injury while fielding, which forced him to miss the rest of the series.

Despite recovering from the injury, the speedster remained out of consideration for the Test team until selectors considered him for the national team’s red-ball tour to Australia in late 2023.

However, reports soon surfaced that Rauf had declined to travel with the team for the tour, which drew heavy criticism from the cricket community.

During a press conference in Lahore in November 2023, former chief selector Wahab Riaz stated, “We spoke with Haris Rauf about this tour two days ago, and he agreed to play Tests for Pakistan. However, he changed his mind last night and did not want to participate in this Australia Test series.”

In a recent interview with a local sports news website, Rauf refuted claims that he had refused to play Test cricket, stating that he is willing to play in the format whenever the chance arises.

Rauf stated, “I have never refused to play Test cricket. I will definitely play whenever I get the opportunity.”

Haris Rauf is currently playing for two-time champions Lahore Qalandars in the ongoing Pakistan Super League (PSL) 10.

The right-arm pacer has taken five wickets in six matches thus far, with a poor average of 46.20 and an economy rate of 10.66.