Ace pacer Shaheen Shah Afridi has raised concerns over the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) decision to cancel Haris Rauf's central contract at its chosen time ahead of PSL 2024. The PCB terminated Rauf's contract on February 15, Thursday, following his withdrawal from the recently completed Test series against Australia.
Additionally, the PCB has barred Rauf from participating in international T20 leagues until June 30, 2024, by withholding No Objection Certificates (NOC).
Shaheen and Rauf are poised to represent Lahore Qalandars, with their opening match scheduled against Islamabad United on February 17, Saturday in the upcoming Pakistan Super League (PSL) 2024.
Shaheen, aiming for his third PSL championship with the Qalandars, praised Rauf for his mental resilience, noting that his teammate is "constantly prepared" to represent the national team.
"I don't have much to say about the PCB's decision. But the timing is such we have a match in one day and the decision just came through,” Shaheen told ESPNcricinfo.
“Haris is a mentally strong boy and this won't affect him hopefully, and perhaps the PCB will also understand making the decision at this time was not correct. Haris is doing fine; he's always ready to play for Pakistan," he added.
Haris Rauf bears PCB's brunt
Following Rauf's absence from the series against Australia, chief selector Wahab Riaz criticised the fast bowler for not participating, especially when Pakistan was short on their main bowling lineup due to injuries.
With Shaheen Shah Afridi being the team's most seasoned fast bowler, newcomers like Khurram Shehzad, Mir Hamza, and Aamer Jamal were still adjusting to Test cricket.
Meanwhile, Rauf chose to compete in the Big Bash League (BBL) 2023-24 season for the team led by Glenn Maxwell, the Melbourne Stars.
Rauf's last appearance for Pakistan was in the T20I series against New Zealand, where he secured seven wickets across 4 games.
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