Pakistan to punish Haris Rauf after Asia Cup controversy; PCB's decision on Babar Azam awaited
Haris Rauf, the Pakistani fast bowler who was recently under the radar for the Asia Cup controversies against India, might be dropped from Pakistan's squad for the upcoming T20I series against South Africa.
Though Pakistan had a heartbreaking end to their Asia Cup 2025 campaign, they could not manage a single win against India despite having faced them thrice during their campaign in the continental championship.
Haris Rauf might be dropped from Pakistan's squad for the upcoming South Africa series
One of the core reasons why Haris Rauf might be dropped from the Pakistan squad would be his controversial economy. Though Rauf was successful in terms of the number of wickets picked, his economy was the worst among all Pakistani bowlers.
With the upcoming ICC T20 World Cup 2026, it won't be shocking if Pakistan considers dropping the fast bowler in order to feature the likes of Mohammad Wasim Jr. or Abbas Afridi so that they can also be handed some gametime.
Pakistan selectors have, however, considered handing an opportunity to young cricketers like Saim Ayub as well as Mohammad Haris, who also failed to be promising in the recently concluded Asia Cup.
Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's return is yet to be decided by PCB
Pakistan ODI wicket-keeper Mohammad Rizwan retained his position in the side as the skipper of the Pakistan One-day team. Alongside him, Shan Masood will continue as their Test skipper, while Salman Agha retains his role as the T20I skipper.
Pakistan had snubbed the two great batsmen from their nation, Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, of an opportunity to feature in the Asia Cup 2025. However, they might be making a comeback into their T20I side ahead of the ICC T20 World Cup 2026.
However, the PCB is yet to reveal anything on the return of Babar Azam or Mohammad Rizwan, indicating the ongoing discussions within the Pakistan Cricket Board.
