Haris Rauf should be in Pakistan Test side, not BBL: Shahid Afridi

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi expressed his opinion on fast bowler Haris Rauf's decision to skip the Australia Test series and participate in the Big Bash League (BBL) instead.

Afridi believes Rauf should be part of the national side, emphasizing his potential contribution in the challenging Australian conditions. Rauf, known for his white-ball expertise, chose the BBL over the Test series, a decision influenced by the financial allure of franchise cricket.

Afridi, who led Pakistan in various formats, remarked that Rauf's pace would have been valuable in the Australian pitches. He also addressed concerns about another fast bowler, Shaheen Shah Afridi, stating that Shaheen had not informed him of any injury.

Afridi praised the consistent performance of players like Babar Azam, Fakhar Zaman, and Mohammad Rizwan, expressing confidence in their continued success.

Afridi voiced his hope that PCB team director Mohammad Hafeez and Chief Selector Wahab Riaz would make prudent selections for the team, suggesting that players might be given rest for a single match if not performing well. The third and final test of the series is scheduled at the Sydney Cricket Ground on January 3.