Queries from Shaheen Afridi When did PCB decide to end Haris Rauf’s central contract?

The core contract of fast bowler Haris Rauf was revoked by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Following Rauf’s decision to skip Pakistan’s Test series against Australia, action was taken.

Concerns have been expressed concerning the timing and consequences of PCB’s decision by Rauf’s national teammate and PSL colleague at Lahore Qalandars, Shaheen Shah Afridi. Along with ending Rauf’s contract, the board withheld the No Objection Certificates (NOC), which prevented him from playing in foreign T20 leagues until June 30.

Shaheen emphasized the suddenness of the move, with Lahore Qalandars scheduled to play the opening game of the PSL 2024 against Islamabad United.

Regarding the PCB’s decision, I have little to say. However, Shaheen told ESPNcricinfo, “The timing is such that we have a match in one day and the decision just came through.” “Hopefully, this won’t harm Harris since he is a resilient lad mentally, and maybe the PCB will realize that this was the wrong time to make the decision. Haris is happy and always prepared to play for Pakistan.

Given Rauf’s regular performances and his significance in the national setup, there are questions about the timeliness of PCB’s decision. In the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023–24, Rauf played for the Melbourne Stars after choosing not to participate in the Test series against Australia.

Chief Selector Wahab Riaz chastised Rauf for being left out of the Pakistani team for the Australian tour, pointing out that Rauf was crucial, especially in situations where front-line bowlers were injured.

Haris Rauf has so far amassed 160 wickets while playing for Pakistan in one Test, 37 ODIs, and 66 T20Is.