(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] Pakistan chairman of men’s selection committee Wahab Riaz addressed the issue of allowing pacer Haris Rauf to play in the Big Bash League (BBL) despite his reluctance to feature in the squad for the Test series versus Australia.
For the unversed, Rauf had pulled out of the Pakistan squad for the Australia Teats at the last minute. Wahab had not taken kindly to Rauf’s decision, hinting at declining Rauf’s No Objection Certificate (NOC) to participate in the ongoing season of the Big Bash League (BBL).
However, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) eventually agreed to grant NOCs to Rauf and two other players, namely Usama Mir and Zaman Khan, allowing them to play in the BBL till December 28.
Speaking of this, Wahab explained the reasons for providing an NOC to Rauf, asserting that they do not intend to damage his career.
“Haris Rauf is a product of our system, and we don’t aim to end his career. When a player signs the central contract, prioritizing Pakistan cricket is a must. Termination clauses exist, but rumors are spreading as if everyone knows the whole story. Show cause notices are not uncommon, so it’s unnecessary to exaggerate the situation,” Wahab said as quoted.
Wahab also mentioned the importance of the BBL gig, saying that this will keep their players in rhythm for the T20I series versus New Zealand, scheduled in January.
“Haris Rauf led the Islamabad team in the domestic T20 competition, but unfortunately, they didn’t reach the super eights stage. With a gap of one and a half months until the New Zealand tour, Cricket Australia’s Big Bash contract for him covers just five games. We aim to keep our players in rhythm, especially as he is a fast bowler. Hence, we granted him the NOC from December 7th to 28th. If selected, he will join the Pakistan team directly in New Zealand,” Wahab added.