Haris Rauf sacked for 'violation' of duties after ditching Pakistan for BBL
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has shredded Haris Rauf's central contract after he ditched his nation's Test team to play in the Big Bash League.
The top-flight fast bowler played for the Melbourne Stars across the 2023/24 season while Pakistan played Australia in a three-match Test series over the same period.
The punishment is two-fold with Rauf banned from contesting overseas leagues until June 30.
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Although a statement from the Pakistan Cricket Board confirmed the contract termination, ESPN Cricinfo reports the national side is still intent on having him represent his country.
Haris Rauf of the Stars bowls during the BBL match between Sydney Sixers and Melbourne Stars at Sydney Cricket Ground. Cricket Australia via Getty Imag
"Haris' central contract has been terminated from December 1, 2023 and no NOC (no objection certificate) to play any foreign league will be granted up to June 30, 2024," it read.
Rauf and the PCB found themselves at loggerheads and the bowler was eventually allowed to play part-time in the Big Bash League.
There was a reported misunderstanding between Rauf and selector Wahab Riaz.
According to Riaz, Rauf said he would be available for the Test series. However, Rauf claimed he did not recall that happening.
Haris Rauf of Pakistan arrives at the stadium prior to the ICC Men's Cricket World Cup India 2023 between Pakistan and Netherlands at Rajiv Gandhi International Stadium. ICC via Getty Images
"The PCB management provided a chance for a personal hearing to Haris in compliance with the principles of natural justice on 30 January 2024 and his response was found unsatisfactory," the statement continued.
"Refusal to be part of Pakistan's Test squad in the absence of any medical report or justifiable reason is a material violation of the central contract."
Rauf eventually returned to the Pakistan side for a five-match T20 series against New Zealand.
Rauf has been something of a force for Pakistan but has only played one Test match for them.
Pakistan's pace line-up lacked venom against Australia with Shaheen Afridi not hitting his highest speeds.
Rauf is expected to play in the Pakistan Super League, which begins on February 17.
