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'He Doesn't Have...': Shaheen Afridi On Haris Rauf's Decision To Opt Out Of Test Series vs AUS

image-lpqvqymsHaris Rauf Opted Out of the Test Series Against Australia (AP News)

In response to Haris Rauf's decision to opt out of the Test series against Australia, Shaheen Shah Afridi asserted that players have the right to choose the formats they want to play. Speaking in Canberra after a practice session, Afridi downplayed concerns about Rauf's absence, stating it won't significantly impact the team's performance.

Shaheen Shah Afridi On Haris Rauf Opting Out Of Test Series:

"Haris was not part of the last series as well in Tests. Haris is a strength for Pakistan cricket in white-ball cricket. He will continue to be a main bowler in white-ball cricket. His impact in white-ball cricket is very high. I think it (not playing Test series in Australia) is his opinion. I think every player has to have his own opinion. It's about the rights of the individual. I think there was a discussion with him before the tour. I think he feels he doesn't have a big impact in red-ball cricket." 

Pakistan, gearing up for the Test series, is eager to overcome their disappointing World Cup 2023 performance. Despite not winning a Test match in Australia since 1995, the team, led by Shan Masood, is determined to make a strong showing.

Haris Rauf's refusal to play the Test series made headlines, with his commitment to the Big Bash League being a key factor. Afridi acknowledged Rauf's strength in white-ball cricket and defended his decision, emphasizing the individual rights of players to choose the formats they feel most impactful in.

However, the decision faced criticism from other quarters. Mohammed Hafeez, Director of Cricket, emphasized the importance of contracted players prioritizing national duties over other commitments. 

Chief selector Wahab Riaz expressed disappointment, highlighting Rauf's potential impact as an essential part of the team's bowling attack, especially amid injuries to other fast bowlers. Despite the controversy, the team is focused on their upcoming challenge against Australia.

Pakistan and Australia will meet in the first Test in Perth from December 14, 5 days after he warm-up game in Canberra.


PAKISTAN SQUAD FOR AUSTRALIA TESTS

Shan Masood (c), Aamer Jamal, Abdullah Shafique, Abrar Ahmed, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Hasan Ali, Imam ul Haq, Khurram Shehzad, Mir Hamza, Mohammad Rizwan, Mohammad Wasim Jr, Nauman Ali, Saim Ayub, Agha Salman, Sarfaraz Ahmed, Saud Shakeel, Shaheen Afridi