LAHORE — Pakistan’s selectors are reportedly preparing to make a bold call ahead of the upcoming T20I series against South Africa, with fast bowler Haris Rauf likely to be left out of the squad following a string of underwhelming performances.
According to sources close to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the 31-year-old pacer, who remains the country’s leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals, has fallen out of favor due to his inconsistent form and expensive spells with the ball.
Rauf’s struggles were evident during this year’s Asia Cup, where he claimed 9 wickets in 5 matches but leaked runs at an economy rate of 9.00 per over a costly figure in the shortest format. His performance in the final against India proved particularly disappointing, conceding 50 runs in just 3.4 overs without taking a wicket, as Pakistan succumbed to another title defeat.
The Asia Cup woes merely extended a difficult year for the fiery pacer. In 15 T20I appearances during the 2025 season, Rauf has taken 23 wickets but maintained an economy rate of 9.10, significantly higher than his career average of 8.38. Analysts believe his inability to contain runs in the death overs has been a growing concern for the team management.
If his exclusion is confirmed, it would signal a decisive shift in PCB’s selection policy, placing current performance over past reputation. The board is believed to be considering Mohammad Wasim Jr. as Rauf’s possible replacement, while Abbas Afridi and Naseem Shah are also expected to make their return after missing out on the Asia Cup squad.
For Haris Rauf, this potential omission could serve as a wake-up call. Despite his raw pace and aggression traits that made him one of Pakistan’s most feared T20 bowlers his recent inconsistency and lack of control have raised serious questions.
Cricket pundits suggest that the Lahore Qalandars star might need to reassess his bowling strategy, particularly his execution under pressure, if he hopes to regain his spot in Pakistan’s T20 setup ahead of next year’s global tournaments.
As Pakistan prepares for the South Africa series, all eyes will be on the final squad announcement and on whether the selectors truly choose form over fame.
