Explained: Why Has Rizwan Dropped Haris Rauf From Pakistan's XI For 3rd ODI vs SA?

Rauf has been excluded from Pakistan's playing XI for 3rd ODI [Source: AP]

In a major development, South Africa have won the toss and opted to bowl first in the third ODI of the ongoing series against Pakistan. Under Mohammad Rizwan's leadership, the visitors have showcased remarkable skill and resilience, securing an unassailable two-nil lead with successive wins in the series. 

However, in an interesting move, Pakistan have dropped Haris Rauf from their playing XI, replacing him with young seamer Mohammad Hasnain for the third ODI against South Africa. The visitors have made two other changes, replacing Abrar Ahmed and Irfan Khan Niazi with Sufiyan Muqeem and Tayyab Tahir, respectively. 

Why Has Haris Rauf Been Dropped From Pakistan's Playing XI?

Hailed for his ability to make the ball talk at a searing pace, Haris Rauf has been underwhelming with the ball on this tour. The bowler failed to bag a single wicket in the T20 leg and continued his horrible run in the ODIs as well. 

So, considering his recent struggle with poor form, Pakistan team management might have decided to drop him from the final ODI of the series. Furthermore, given that the visitors have already won the series, this move aims to give Hasnain some game time before the all-important Tri-Series and Champions Trophy. 

On a similar note, Irfan Khan Niazi might have been dropped for his horrendous batting form. However, Abrar seems to be rested, with Muqeem taking up his place in the playing XI. 

Pakistan's playing XI for 3rd ODI: Saim Ayub, Abdullah Shafique, Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan (c & wk), Kamran Ghulam, Agha Salman, Tayyab Tahir, Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, Mohammad Hasnain, Sufiyan Muqeem

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