T20 World Cup 2026: Why is Pakistan likely to drop Haris Rauf from Squad?

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Fast bowler Haris Rauf appears set to miss out on selection for Pakistan's squad in the upcoming ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2026, according to multiple reports from reliable Pakistani media sources.

The tournament, co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka, is scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8. Pakistan has been drawn in Group A alongside India, the United States, the Netherlands, and Namibia, with all group-stage matches to be played in Sri Lanka. The team opens its campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo.

Rauf, Pakistan's leading T20I wicket-taker with 133 wickets in 94 matches, has not featured in any T20 Internationals for the national side since the Asia Cup 2025 final against India in September 2025. In that match, he conceded 50 runs in 3.4 overs without taking a wicket, contributing to Pakistan's defeat as India chased down to win the title.

Why is Haris Rauf likely to miss Pakistan Squad for T20 World Cup?

Absence from recent T20I cricket for Pakistan: Rauf has not played any T20 Internationals since that Asia Cup final. His prolonged absence from national duty has led selectors and management to question his current form, fitness integration, and alignment with team plans. Reports highlight that the team has been evaluating bowling options through recent assignments, and Rauf's non-involvement has worked against him.

Head coach Mike Hesson's stance: White-ball head coach Mike Hesson is reportedly not in favour of including Rauf in the final 15-member squad. The Pakistan coach has doubts over Rauf's mettle under pressure, and thus they are not keen on picking him. The selection panel appears keen on building around emerging or reliable fast-bowling options, such as Naseem Shah, Shaheen Afridi, and others who have been part of recent setups. Hesson himself is also in favour of upcoming promising talents.