The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has terminated Haris Rauf’s central contract following his refusal to tour Australia for Tests in the winter.
Additionally, he will be denied a No Objection Certificate (NOC) to play in any foreign league up to 30 June 2024.
Rauf’s decision to withdraw from the tour left the PCB in an embarrassing situation, especially after assurances were given regarding managing his workload.
Consequently, Pakistan had to rely on an inexperienced pace attack during their three-Test series in Australia 2023-24, where they suffered a 3-0 defeat.
Chief selector Wahab Riaz expressed disappointment over Rauf’s last-minute change of mind, highlighting the impact on team combination and offering support even if Rauf didn’t perform well in Australia.
The PCB conducted a thorough hearing process and determined the punishment considering input from all stakeholders.
Rauf’s contract termination is effective from 1 December 2023, following an unsatisfactory response during a personal hearing on 30 January 2024.
The PCB emphasized that playing for Pakistan is a significant honor and refusal to be part of the Test squad without a valid medical reason constitutes a serious breach of the central contract.
Despite the controversy, Rauf was granted permission to participate in the Big Bash League.
In another development, the PCB has parted ways with Mohammad Hafeez as Team Director.
Hafeez, who took over the role from Mickey Arthur, oversaw disappointing results during his tenure, including a Test series whitewash in Australia and a T20I series loss in New Zealand.
The PCB expressed gratitude for Hafeez’s contributions but highlighted the need for change, citing reports of his unpopular management style within the team.
Hafeez’s criticism of pitch conditions and match officiating also attracted controversy during his short stint.
These decisions coincide with Syed Mohsin Raza Naqvi’s election as the chairman of the PCB, suggesting a shift in direction for Pakistan cricket.
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