Can Haris Rauf solve Pakistan's fast-bowling conundrum?

Haris Rauf has expressed his intention to earn a recall to Pakistan's Test squad for the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka in November. The 32-year-old fast bowler made his sole Test appearance on December 1, 2022, against England at Rawalpindi, where he bowled 13 overs and took one wicket, dismissing Zak Crawley, but conceded 78 runs. That match also saw Rauf suffer a quad injury while fielding.

Rauf's recent domestic form has strengthened his case for selection. Playing for Pakistan Television in the President's Trophy, he took 5 for 34 in 13 overs, a performance that forced his opponents to follow on, though the match ended in a draw. Rauf recently stated his ambition clearly when discussing his prospects for the upcoming series.

"There's always a purpose that is driving you when you play cricket. I am trying to put my name forward for the Sri Lanka series, and Pakistan is also in need of a fast bowler. Let's see what happens in the future as there are quite a few games to go in the President's Trophy," Rauf was quoted as saying by The Daily Star.

Rauf's first-class record demonstrates his capability in the longer format. Across 14 matches, he has taken 47 wickets at an average of 27.04, including three five-wicket hauls and a best performance of 6 for 47. His experience in domestic cricket shows he possesses the technical foundation required for international Test cricket, though his international career has been primarily focused on white-ball cricket, where he has established himself as a regular in Pakistan's ODI and T20I squads.

"You look to improve yourself by playing the longer format whenever you get time. “I had time to work on myself right now with the series against Sri Lanka and England coming up so I am looking to avail it. This is the best preparation." Rauf said.

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The question is whether Rauf can solve Pakistan's fast-bowling conundrum in the longest format. On the recent tour of England, Mohammad Abbas was the best bowler for Pakistan, as he bagged 13 wickets in three games. However, no other fast bowler managed to make much of an impact. Rauf's comeback would add pace and experience to the bowling attack. It will be interesting to see whether PCB includes him in the squad for the Sri Lanka Tests.