'Give him Indian citizenship'; Pakistani cricketer faces widespread criticism after final loss

LAHORE: Pakistan cricket fans are deeply disappointed after their team’s defeat against India in the Asia Cup final. Though Pakistan put up a strong bowling performance after being bowled out for a small score despite a good start, it was not enough to stop India. Chasing 147, India lost three top-order wickets quickly and were struggling at 20/3. Most Pakistani bowlers bowled well, but pacer Haris Rauf had a night to forget.

Fans are now blaming Rauf for the team's loss. He gave away 50 runs in 3.4 overs without taking a single wicket. Soon after, angry fans turned against him, accusing him of “playing for India” and even joking that he should be given Indian citizenship. Social media in Pakistan was flooded with criticism.

Rauf had bowled a tight first over, conceding only seven runs. But when he came back for his second spell, India was 84/4 in 14 overs, needing 64 runs from 36 balls. In the 15th over, Shivam Dube and Tilak Varma smashed 17 runs off Rauf’s bowling. Later, with India needing 30 from the last three overs, his 18th over went for 13 runs.

Rauf was also handed the final over, with India requiring 10 runs to win. However, he conceded 13 runs in the first four balls, sealing India’s title victory. This final blow turned fan anger directly on him.