Refused to join Test squad for Pakistan's tour of Australia; PCB takes strong action against pacer Haris Rauf

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken strict disciplinary action against star pacer Haris Rauf. PCB revoked all contracts with the star following his refusal to join Pakistan's Test squad for their tour of Australia. The star, who was left out of the Pakistan Test team that toured Australia in December, went to play in Australia's T20 league, the Big Bash. This is what angered the board.

"Fast bowler Haris Rauf has been penalised by Pakistan Cricket Board, following a probe into his refusal to join Pakistan's Test squad for the tour of Australia 2023-24," a statement from the PCB read.

After a thorough hearing process conducted by a PCB committee and taking into consideration the views of all stakeholders involved in the matter, Haris' central contract has been terminated from December 1, 2023 and no NOC (No objection certificate) to play any foreign league will be granted up to June 30, 2024.

Rauf will also not be granted permission to play in any overseas leagues up to June 30, 2024

According to the statement, the PCB management provided a chance for a personal hearing to Haris in compliance with the principles of natural justice on January 30 and his response was found unsatisfactory.

"The PCB states that playing for Pakistan is the ultimate honour and privilege for any sportsperson. Refusal to be part of Pakistan's Test squad in the absence of any medical report or justifiable reason is a material violation of the central contract," the statement further read.

Pakistan toured Australia for three Tests in December-January 2023. The side displayed moments of brilliance, but the series was eventually whitewashed 3-0.