Haris Rauf reacts after World Cup squad exclusion

Twenty20 World Cup squad – (Special Correspondent / Web Desk) – Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has expressed his determination to keep improving his game after being left out of the Twenty20 World Cup squad.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) recently announced its 15-member squad for the ICC T20 World Cup. While former captain Babar Azam made the cut, Rauf and Mohammad Rizwan were not included.

In a special interview from Australia, the 31-year-old pacer said missing the tournament doesn’t mark the end of his career. He acknowledged that it’s natural for any player to feel disappointed, but emphasized his focus on sharpening his skills.

“Of course, I feel a bit disappointed for not being picked in the T20 World Cup squad,” Rauf admitted. “But my career isn’t over. I’ll keep working hard and concentrate on improving my bowling.”

The Rawalpindi-born fast bowler added that he has been working consistently on his performance and believes he has grown stronger since the Asia Cup.

Expressing good wishes for the national team playing the T20 World Cup, the fast bowler said he hopes the side performs strongly in the tournament.

Replying to a question regarding criticism, Rauf said there is a clear difference between constructive criticism and personal abuse. He said players are also deeply affected when Pakistan lose matches.

“When Pakistan lose, players feel the pain as well,” he said. “Criticism is fine, but disrespect is not.”

Rauf said he has always tried his level best whenever he represented Pakistan.

He also spoke about the challenges of bowling in the death overs, saying it is one of the toughest roles in modern cricket. “It is not easy to bowl in the death overs,” he said.

Rauf also praised the Pakistan Super League (PSL) that is going to enter its 11th edition this March, saying it is becoming a major league and will continue to attract more overseas players in the future.

The squad features a blend of experience and emerging talent. Rising star Khawaja Nafay has earned his place, while the batting lineup will be bolstered by Salman Ali Agha, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and Shadab Khan.

The combination reflects selectors’ intent to balance proven performers with fresh energy.

In the all-round and bowling departments, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed and Usman Khan have been included.

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The pace attack will be spearheaded by Pakistan’s premier fast bowlers  such as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, whose presence is expected to provide the team with a lethal edge in conditions favouring seam and swing.

The squad also features Usman Tariq and Salman Mirza, both of whom have impressed in domestic cricket and now have the opportunity to showcase their skills on the world stage.