Pakistan cricket team’s need for an express pacer in Test cricket could be coming to an end, after star fast bowler Haris Rauf revealed his ambitions to represent Pakistan in all three formats of the game.
Speaking to media after helping Pakistan win a thrilling opening ODI by six runs against Sri Lanka, Haris Rauf reiterated his desire to don the cricketing whites again if given the chance.
Rauf was the standout performer in Pakistan’s narrow win, claiming four wickets and breaking Sri Lanka’s momentum at crucial stages. His spell ensured Pakistan defended their total, giving the home side a 1-0 lead in the three-match series.
Despite all his success in white-ball cricket, Haris Rauf has not been seen in Test cricket. He has only played one international match for Pakistan and just 13 First-Class matches overall. The lack of express pace in the Test team has forced Pakistan to often experiment with one fast bowler and a plethora of spinners, which works in home conditions but leaves the team wanting in pace-friendly arenas.
If Haris Rauf returns to the Test team for matches against sides like Australia, England, and South Africa in their own backyard in the future, it will give Pakistan’s chances of lifting the WTC trophy a major boost.
For now, he and Pakistan will look to seal the series in the second ODI tomorrow, with the final match scheduled for November 15.