Australia vs Pakistan: Haris Rauf disturbed with 'undue' criticism post ICC World Cup 2023 - Report

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has been facing some tough times as his bowling came under fire during the ICC World Cup 2023 and the decision not to be part of the Test squad for the Australia vs Pakistan series led to further criticism. It has been now reported by Pakistan media that the pacer is disturbed by the 'undue' criticism.

Contrary to reports that he never agreed to play the longer format, newly-appointed chief selector Wahab Riaz previously claimed in a press conference that Rauf had first assured the cricket board of his availability for Test cricket but had withdrawn at the last minute due to fitness concerns.

Local website Cricketpakistan.com spoke to a close source of the family, who revealed that Haris Rauf is focussing on preparing mentally, physically, and in terms of form to re-enter Test cricket while he is deeply hurt by the criticism he was subject to during the ICC World Cup 2023.

"Look, Haris is upset with those who have unleashed undue criticism on the pacers during the World Cup campaign. Even those who hardly know anything are criticising his form and raising questions about his not picking wickets regularly during World Cup matches," said a close family source.

It was also reported that Haris Rauf believes he is in a difficult situation because he is unsure if the Pakistan Cricket Board will grant him the No-Objection Certificate necessary to participate in the Big Bash League.

It is important to note that Haris Rauf faced criticism for his poor performance in the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, which ended recently. He unintentionally broke the record for being the most expensive bowler in a single 50-over world championship event. Rauf took 16 wickets at the the event, which is two less than Pakistan's top wicket-taker Shaheen Afridi while eight less than the tournament's top wicket-taker Mohammad Shami.

Rauf, who debuted for his country in January 2020, has only participated in nine First-Class games and one Test match, which took place in December 2022 against England. He bowled just 13 overs in one innings during the England Test before being forced off the field with a fitness concern. Notwithstanding the current controversy, Rauf is committed to getting in the best possible physical and mental health in order to resume playing Test cricket.