According to a source within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), there is a possibility that Haris Rauf, the Pakistani fast bowler, could have his central contract reinstated following a review by the board’s legal team. Rauf’s central contract was terminated just before the commencement of the Pakistan Super League (PSL) due to his refusal to participate in the three-Test series against Australia, which Pakistan subsequently lost 0-3 in January.
The PCB’s legal team is currently examining Rauf’s appeal, which seeks the restoration of his central contract. Rauf is presently sidelined from the PSL due to a shoulder dislocation sustained during the tournament’s third match while representing Lahore Qalandars.
Following his decision not to partake in the Test series against Australia, Rauf participated in the Big Bash League during the same period. Despite this, he was still included by the PCB for the five-match T20I series in New Zealand, as his last appearance for the national team was in the fourth match of that series in Christchurch. Additionally, the PCB suspended the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Haris for participation in foreign leagues until June of the current year.
The source mentioned that Haris Rauf submitted his appeal through his legal representative, providing a comprehensive statement outlining his perspective on the circumstances that prevented his participation in the Tests in Australia. However, the PCB is reportedly displeased with comments made by Sameen Rana, one of Rauf’s PSL franchise owners, criticizing the board’s decision to take action against Rauf, and deeming the timing of the announcement unnecessary.
Sameer Rana said: “Rauf’s our premier bowler, our highest wicket-taker after Shaheen Afridi. To publicly humiliate him and issue a press release announcing the termination of his central contract, I have never seen this happen anywhere.”
“I would never treat my employees like that. The employee at least has the right for you to call, email or message them. None of that happened with Rauf, and it was pathetic. It was really poor management.”
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