Haris Rauf (Source:@BBL,x,com)
In the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL 2025-26), Melbourne Stars is playing against the Sydney Thunder in Match No. 14 at the Manuka Oval on December 28, 2025. Talking about the game, Melbourne Stars captain Marcus Stoinis won the toss and chose to bowl first.
Early in the first innings, Haris Rauf was involved a dramatic moment on the fourth ball of the third over while bowling to opener Matthew Gilkes.
Haris Rauf’s brilliant fielding shines
Haris Rauf went for a catch off Gilkes’ shot, and at first, he seemed to have taken it cleanly. However, moments later, he appeared unsure and signaled for a referral to the on-field umpires.
Replays showed that the ball had actually bounced before Rauf could complete the catch. The umpires confirmed the decision not out. This moment also left the commentators laughing at the box.
Rauf redeems himself with wicket
Rauf, however, did not have to wait long to make amends. In the very next over, he struck again, and Gilkes was dismissed. Bowling a full delivery around off-stump with a change of pace, Gilkes edged the ball to mid-off, where captain Marcus Stoinis took a sharp catch to send the Thunder opener back to the pavilion.
The Melbourne Stars have been in excellent form this season, climbing to the top of the points table with three wins from as many matches. Their undefeated streak has made them one of the most formidable teams in BBL 2025-26.
Meanwhile, the Sydney Thunder, led by David Warner, have had a mixed start with just one win from three games and a negative net run rate of -0.258. They will be hoping to bounce back in this game.
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Rauf emerges strong contender for T20 WC 2026
Haris Rauf’s consistent performances in the BBL have also strengthened his case for selection in Pakistan’s upcoming T20 World Cup squad. He has taken nine wickets in 4 innings, maintaining an economy rate of 7.94 and a strike rate of 10.00.
His consistent form in the league has put him ahead of other Pakistani players participating in the BBL.
This season, several Pakistani players are showcasing their skills in Australia. Babar Azam is playing for the Sydney Sixers, Mohammad Rizwan is representing the Melbourne Renegades, and Shaheen Afridi is appearing for the Brisbane Heat.
It is important to note that Pakistan has announced the squad for the Sri Lanka tour. All four of these players will remain in Australia until their respective BBL commitments end.
As a result, they are currently absent from Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming three-match T20I series. The PCB has likely decided to honor their contracts with the BBL and not recall them prematurely.
Among these players, Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, and Haris Rauf are expected to be included in Pakistan’s T20 World Cup squad. Mohammad Rizwan, who has been out of the T20 format for nearly a year, is likely to be left out despite playing in the BBL.
