![Haris Rauf [Source: AFP]](https://onecricketnews.akamaized.net/parth-editor/oc-dashboard/news-images-prod/1768888580883_Haris Rauf not in Pakistan's plan.jpg)
Haris Rauf [Source: AFP]
In a significant development, reports suggest that Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf is unlikely to be included in Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming T20 World Cup, which is yet to be officially announced.
Notably, this news comes as a surprise, especially considering Rauf’s experience and recent performances in franchise cricket. However, according to sources, the team management may be looking in a different direction for the global tournament.
No Place for Haris Rauf in Pakistan's T20 World Cup squad
According to reports from Geo News, Pakistan head coach Mike Hesson is reportedly not keen on selecting Haris Rauf following the Asia Cup 2025 final against India. That high-pressure match was played in Dubai on September 28, where Pakistan suffered a defeat.
In the final, Rauf failed to pick up any wickets and conceded 50 runs in his spell, as India went on to win the match by five wickets. This performance is believed to have played a key role in the management’s thinking.
However, it is also important to look at the bigger picture. During the Asia Cup 2025 as a whole, Haris Rauf finished with nine wickets in five innings. Although his economy rate stood at 9.00, he was still among Pakistan’s leading wicket-takers in the tournament.
Meanwhile, Haris Rauf is currently playing in the Big Bash League (BBL 2025-26), representing the Melbourne Stars. In the ongoing season, he has been in excellent form, picking up 18 wickets in 10 innings with a strong economy rate of 7.97.
Pakistan already submitted provisional T20 World Cup squad
At the same time, Pakistan have not yet publicly announced their T20 World Cup squad. However, as per reports, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already submitted a provisional 15-member squad to the International Cricket Council (ICC).
January 1 was the deadline set by the ICC for all teams to submit their provisional squads, and Pakistan completed this process on time.
Under ICC rules, teams are allowed to make changes to their provisional squads until January 31 without needing special approval. Any changes made after that date will require permission from the ICC’s tournament technical committee.
Pakistan senior players being considered
According to sources, while Haris Rauf is currently not being considered, the provisional squad includes injured fast bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi, former captain Babar Azam, and all-rounder Shadab Khan.
Meanwhile, before the T20 World Cup begins, Pakistan are scheduled to play a home series against Australia. All three matches will be held at Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore on January 29, January 31, and February 1.
PCB halt T20 World Cup preparations
At the same time, reports claim that the PCB has temporarily paused preparations for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, which is set to take place from February 7 to March 8 in India and Sri Lanka.
Officials stated that the team management will be briefed later and have been asked to prepare a backup plan in case Pakistan decides not to take part in the tournament.
Pakistan have shown support for Bangladesh’s decision not to travel to India due to security concerns. Officials have added that if the issue remains unresolved, Pakistan may also reconsider its participation in the World Cup.
