Wahab Riaz explains 'science' behind giving Haris Rauf NOC for BBL 2023, had blasted pacer last month

Wahab Riaz, the chief selector of the Pakistan cricket team, has explained the science of giving pacer Haris Rauf a No Objection Certificate (NOC), days after slamming him in a press conference while announcing Pakistan squad for three-Test series against Australia.

While talking to media on Saturday, the former Pakistan pacer stated that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has facilitated Haris Rauf's NOC to ensure he is in rhythm ahead of the 5-match T20I series against New Zealand which starts from January 12.

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"From now until the New Zealand series, there is a gap of 1.5 months during which Haris Rauf isn't playing any cricket. His contract with Cricket Australia for the Big Bash comprises only 5 games.

"Considering the thought that there won't be any cricket for 1.5 months and he's a fast bowler, to ensure he maintains his rhythm, we have given him a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from December 7th to 28th.

"This will cover his 5 Big Bash matches so that he can then travel with the Pakistan team for the New Zealand tour. This is the science behind giving him the NOC," Wahab explained.

The comments from Wahab Riaz contradicted what he had said while blasting Haris Rauf in the press conference. Wahab had warned that players not prioritising playing for Pakistan would not be given preference in future.

"Two days back he (Haris) told us he was available for the Test series and last night he said he had worries over his workload and fitness issues so he was not available," Wahab said at the press conference on November 20.

"I and the Director of Pakistan team, Muhammad Hafeez we went and spoke to him in detail and told him that both the captain and coach wanted him (Haris) to play in Australia as he was an impact bowler and we assured him he would not bowl more than 10-12 overs in a day in Australia.

"As a centrally contracted player we felt he should have not taken a step back. We felt Haris, if he wanted to play for Pakistan, should as a player be ready to make a sacrifice and play for the team.

"Any player no matter who he is or how big a player is, if he is not giving priority to the Pakistan team then he will not feature in our future plans," Wahab, who has played 21 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is for Pakistan, had said.

(With Input From PTI)