KARACHI/LAHORE — Cricket fans in Pakistan are in for a surprise as reports suggest fast bowler Haris Rauf may be left out of the Pakistan squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. Known for his lethal yorkers and death-over mastery, Rauf has been a key weapon in Pakistan’s T20 attack — making this news all the more shocking.
Sources indicate that team management and selectors are weighing other options, with the final 15-member squad expected to be announced soon. Rauf’s omission from the preliminary list submitted to the ICC has sparked discussions across social media and cricket forums.
Why Rauf Could Be Left Out
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Recent Form: Reports suggest that Rauf’s performance in high-pressure matches, including the Asia Cup 2025 final, has raised concerns among the coaching staff.
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Team Strategy: Head coach Mike Hesson is said to be aiming for a bowling lineup that balances pace, spin, and all-round options to suit subcontinental conditions.
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Emerging Competition: Several young pacers and versatile bowlers are pushing for selection, making the competition for spots even fiercer.
Rauf’s Current Cricketing Form
Despite the uncertainty, Haris Rauf has continued to impress in domestic and international leagues, including the Big Bash League (BBL) in Australia, where he plays for the Melbourne Stars.
What This Means for Pakistan
Pakistan’s T20 World Cup campaign kicks off in Group A alongside India, the Netherlands, the USA, and Namibia, beginning on February 7, 2026 in Colombo. Fans are eagerly awaiting the final squad announcement, which could see a major shake-up in Pakistan’s bowling department.
For now, all eyes remain on the selectors, with cricket enthusiasts debating whether Pakistan can afford to leave one of their most experienced fast bowlers out of the squad.
“It’s a tough call, but team balance and strategy could be the deciding factor,” said a cricket analyst.
