PCB terminates Haris Rauf's central contract

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken a stern stance against fast bowler Haris Rauf for his decision to opt out of joining the Pakistan Test squad for the 2023-24 series against Australia. The decision did not sit well with the PCB, leading to the termination.

The termination, effective from December 1, 2023, was made after a comprehensive hearing process conducted by a PCB committee. Additionally, Rauf has been barred from obtaining a No-Objection Certificate (NOC) to play in overseas T20 leagues until June 30, 2024.

PCB's management extended an opportunity to Rauf to present his side of the story during a personal hearing on January 30, 2024. However, his response failed to meet the expectations set forth by the principles of natural justice, leading to the enforcement of the termination clause in his contract.

In a press release issued by the PCB, it was emphasised that representing Pakistan is a matter of great honour and privilege for any athlete. Rauf's refusal to be part of the Test squad without providing a valid medical report or any justifiable reason was deemed a serious breach of his contractual obligations.

Haris Rauf has so far played 37 ODIs, 66 T20Is, and a Test match for Pakistan, in which he has claimed a total of 160 wickets.

This development came just hours after Mohammed Hafeez, the former director of the Pakistan cricket team, also parted ways, signalling a period of significant changes and recalibration within Pakistan cricket. 

Also read: Pakistan's director of cricket Mohammad Hafeez parts ways with PCB after unsuccessful tenure