Rauf's Issues in the Asia Cup
Haris Rauf had already made headlines for his on-field conduct in the Asia Cup Super 4 match against India. He was again in the news during the final, but this time for his subpar bowling. Playing against India, he gave away 50 runs in only 3.5 overs and did not get a single wicket.
Wasim Akram's Firm Words
Following the last match, erstwhile Pakistani skipper Wasim Akram criticized Rauf extensively. He stated that the fast bowler has turned into a "run machine" against India. Akram went on to say that the criticism was not just from him but the entire nation. He emphasized that Rauf has been not improving because he doesn't play red-ball cricket. According to him, a player who lacks first-class experience has difficulty in developing control and consistency. Akram advised that Rauf play four to five first-class matches at least before playing for Pakistan in limited-overs cricket.
Endorsement by Waqar Younis
Former pacer Waqar Younis endorsed Akram's view. He also mentioned that Rauf's absence of red-ball cricket is the primary cause of his poor performance against important matches.
Criticism of Captaincy
Akram did not leave out Rauf. He also criticised Pakistan's captain, Salman Ali Agha. He asserted that poor leadership and poor decisions led to the loss of the team in the final.
PCB Suggestions
Akram went further to urge the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider its strategy. He maintained that cricketers who shun red-ball cricket ought not to be considered for national selection.
Key Moments in the Final
In the final of Asia Cup 2025, Rauf's costly overs turned the game for India. In the 15th over, Tilak Verma and Shivam Dube took 17 runs off him. This changed India's target to 47 runs from 30 balls from the original 64 runs from 36 balls. He leaked 13 runs later in the 18th over. In the final over, when India required 10 runs, Rauf gave a six to Tilak Verma and a four to Rinku Singh, confirming Pakistan's loss.
Rauf's Record Against India
Haris Rauf has featured in seven T20Is against India. He has conceded 231 runs in these games at an economy of 8.66 and an average of 25.66. His best performance came in the 2022 T20 World Cup, where he conceded 15 runs off his 19th over to Virat Kohli, resulting in a historic India win.
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