Pakistan’s right-arm speedster Haris Rauf has voiced his frustration over the constant criticism faced by the national cricket team, particularly following their five-wicket defeat in the rain-affected second T20I against New Zealand at the University Oval on Tuesday.
In the post-match presentation, Rauf emphasized the need to support emerging players, stating that the culture of criticism has become a norm in Pakistan. “It is now a common thing in Pakistan to criticize players. These are young players who have been given an opportunity,” he remarked.
Rauf pointed out that other teams provide their young talents with ample chances to succeed, often giving them 10 to 15 games to adjust. “When you first enter international cricket, you struggle. That goes without saying. It is now common in Pakistan. People are waiting to see us lose. People have their opinion,” he added.
The match itself saw Pakistan struggle after being put into bat in a rain-affected game reduced to 15 overs per side. The team managed to post a total of 135 runs for 9 wickets, a score that proved insufficient against a determined New Zealand side.
In response, the home team chased down the target comfortably, finishing with 11 balls to spare. Tim Seifert was the standout performer for New Zealand, scoring a rapid 45 off just 22 balls, while Finn Allen contributed a quickfire 38 off 16 deliveries. Despite the loss, Haris Rauf shone with the ball, taking two wickets for 20 runs in his three overs.
Looking ahead, the pressure is on as Pakistan prepares for the must-win third T20I on Friday. A defeat in this match would hand New Zealand an unassailable lead in the five-match series, making it crucial for the team to regroup and perform under pressure.