Is PCB mulling to restore Haris Rauf's central contract?

By
Sohail Imran

March 04, 2024

Pakistans Haris Rauf celebrates his wicket of Afghanistans Azmatullah Omarzai during T20 World Cup warm-up match between Afghanistan and Pakistan at the Gabba in Brisbane on October 19, 2022. — AFP
Pakistan's Haris Rauf celebrates his wicket of Afghanistan's Azmatullah Omarzai during T20 World Cup warm-up match between Afghanistan and Pakistan at the Gabba in Brisbane on October 19, 2022. — AFP

LAHORE: Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf's central contract with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is likely to be restored in a few days, sources told Geo News.

The national cricket governing body had last month terminated the pacer's contract, which made him a part of the national squads in all formats, for his refusal to join Pakistan’s Test team for the tour of Australia 2023-24.

However, Rauf — a key member of Pakistan's bowling attack — reportedly appealed the contract termination with the PCB a few days ago and stated in detail his reasons for excusing himself from the Australia tour.

The sources said that the PCB is legally reviewing the appeal.

Terminating Rauf's contract till June 30, the PCB also barred him from playing in any foreign league till the said date.

"Haris’s 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," a PCB statement read.

The decision was taken after a committee formed by the PCB conducted a thorough hearing process and probe into the matter.

During this process, the views of all the stakeholders involved in the matter were taken into consideration.