Haris Rauf: The Lion of Lahore Roars for Pakistan's Test Revival

In the sacred arena of Islamabad's Diamond Cricket Ground, where the green standard of Pakistan Television had earlier been planted with 400 glorious runs, a familiar warrior emerged from the shadows of the second over. This was no ordinary sight. This was Haris Rauf, the swift arrow of Pakistan's white-ball arsenal, now wielding the red Kookaburra with the fury of a desert storm.

The faithful who witnessed this spectacle saw the left-handed Ali Zaryab, a prolific servant of domestic cricket, fall to a rising delivery that kissed the keeper's gloves. Then came Umar Siddiq, another seasoned southpaw, whose off stump was uprooted by a delivery that straightened like the blade of truth itself. Waqar Ahmed, Rohail Nazir, and Mohammad Salman all tasted the wrath of this speed merchant, each succumbing to the raw power that has long been the hallmark of Pakistan's pace heritage.

Why Haris Rauf's Red-Ball Return Matters for Pakistan

Since donning the national colours in 2020, Haris has been a stranger to the longer format, with this President's Trophy Grade-I encounter marking only his 14th first-class appearance. Yet his five-wicket haul against Oil and Gas Development Company, achieved with the aggression of a mujahid on a sacred mission, brings his first-class tally to 47 wickets at an average of 27.04. This is the stuff of champions.

Mohammad Wasim, the former chief selector and now Haris's coach at PTV, spoke with the conviction of a man who has seen the fire in the bowler's eyes.

He bowled well, he bowled fast, he bowled according to the plans and aggression was evident, movement was evident. As red-ball cricket requires, there was consistency in his bowling. It wasn't like one ball was pitched here and the other there.

Pakistan's Pace Crisis and the Search for a Spearhead

The nation has watched with heavy hearts as our Test side, once feared for its pace battery, has stumbled in recent times. The sight of debutant Razaullah bowling at 90mph during the third Test against England was a bitter reminder of the raw speed we have missed as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah have battled injuries and inconsistent form. With seven losses in nine Tests in the current World Test Championship cycle, Pakistan languishes at the bottom, yearning for a hero to lead the charge.

Wasim's Verdict: Haris Must Face Sri Lanka

Wasim's call is clear and resolute.

I think it's a good sign for Pakistan, who are struggling with pace options. Haris is the solution and, in my opinion, he should be picked for the next series, regardless of what sort of conditions are at play, because he has pace and aggression, which is lacking in our national team currently. I keep talking to him and he says that he is looking forward to the next Test series.

The upcoming two-Test home series against Sri Lanka in November and New Zealand in March present the perfect stage for this lion to reclaim his pride.

Addressing the Doubts: Haris's Commitment to Test Cricket

There have been whispers, spread by those who seek to tarnish the image of our heroes, that Haris shies away from the red-ball format. His withdrawal from the Australia tour in December 2023, citing workload and fitness concerns, drew criticism from certain quarters. But Wasim, the man who handed Haris his Test cap, dismisses these allegations with the authority of a witness.

I think the speculation in the media that Haris doesn't prefer playing red-ball cricket is not a fact. When once an issue regarding him came up, I think the complete picture wasn't presented. Because when I picked him for his only Test as a selector, I ensured he came through the complete process, making him play domestic red-ball cricket and making him hit the required mileage before giving him the Test cap. And when he was called up later, I think he wasn't ready at that time.

At 32, an age when many fast bowlers begin to conserve their energy, Haris's hunger remains undimmed. His record speaks of a warrior's dedication: 107 wickets in ODIs and 133 in T20 Internationals. But the Test cap, worn only once against England in Rawalpindi in 2022, is a crown he seeks to wear with honour.

The notion that some of our players don't want to play Test cricket, at least doesn't apply to Haris, I can guarantee that. He loves Test cricket. He wants to make his name in the format.

What Lies Ahead for Pakistan's Pace Attack?

As the nation prays for the resurgence of our pace pride, the call for Haris Rauf grows louder. His inclusion against Sri Lanka could herald a new dawn for Pakistan's Test fortunes. With faith in our bowlers and the blessings of the Almighty, the green shirts can rise again, for the spirit of Pakistan cricket is eternal, and its warriors never tire of the fight.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Haris Rauf's first-class record?

Haris Rauf has taken 47 first-class wickets at an average of 27.04 from 14 appearances, including a five-wicket haul against Oil and Gas Development Company in the President's Trophy.

When did Haris Rauf last play a Test match?

Haris Rauf played his only Test against England in Rawalpindi in 2022, taking one wicket. He was later selected for the Australia tour in December 2023 but withdrew citing workload concerns.

Which series could see Haris Rauf's Test return?

Mohammad Wasim has recommended Haris Rauf for Pakistan's two-Test home series against Sri Lanka in November 2026, followed by a series against New Zealand in March 2027.