The uncertainty surrounding Haris Rauf’s participation in the upcoming BBL 2023-24 season has intensified as the PCB contemplates delaying the issuance of the No Objection Certificate (NOC). The primary reason behind this potential delay lies in the PCB’s desire for players, including Haris, to prioritize their involvement in the national T20 cup scheduled for 2023. The BBL is set to kick off on December 7th, adding urgency to the decision-making process.
Complicating matters further is the fact that the BBL spans from December 7th to January 24th, overlapping with the scheduled Pak vs NZ T20I series from January 12th to 21st. With such conflicting schedules, the PCB may find it more beneficial to have Haris Rauf participate in the crucial T20 series against New Zealand instead of being engaged in the BBL after the national T20 cup.
Initially expected to receive the NOC after the conclusion of the national T20 cup on or after December 10th or 11th, Haris Rauf’s future participation in the BBL remains uncertain. Recent reports suggest a rift between the PCB and Haris, with Wahab Riaz, the new chief selector, revealing that Haris had withdrawn from the Pakistan tour of Australia for three Tests at the last moment. However, sources close to Haris assert that he was never interested in Test cricket and, following his stint as the most expensive bowler in the World Cup 2023, wanted to focus on improving his fitness and overall well-being.
The audience’s reaction to this saga is divided, with some criticizing Haris for his decisions, while others support him, understanding his preference for limited-overs cricket. PCB regulations permit each player to participate in two foreign leagues within 12 months, subject to NOC issuance, and Haris had secured a marquee role with the Melbourne Stars in the BBL.
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