Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has reaffirmed his commitment to improving his cricket after being left out of the 2026 T20 World Cup squad.
According to sources, the Selection Committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) finalized its 15-member squad earlier this week. Former captain Babar Azam was included, while Haris Rauf and wicketkeeper-batsman Mohammad Rizwan were left out.
Speaking in a special interview from Australia, the 31-year-old fast bowler said there was no need to feel discouraged by the decision, stressing that missing the tournament does not mark the end of his career.
“Of course, there is disappointment as I was not picked in the T20 World Cup squad,” Rauf said. “But my career won’t end. I will keep working hard and focus more on my bowling.”
The Rawalpindi-born pacer said any player would feel regret after missing a major tournament but added that his focus remains on improving his performance. He said he has continued working on his skills and believes his performances have improved since the Asia Cup.
Rauf also extended his best wishes to the national team ahead of the T20 World Cup and said he hopes Pakistan performs strongly in the tournament.
Addressing criticism from fans and commentators, Rauf said there is a clear difference between constructive criticism and personal abuse. He emphasized that players are also deeply affected by defeats.
“When Pakistan lose, players feel the pain as well,” he said. “Criticism is fine, but disrespect is not.”
Rauf said he has always given his best whenever he represented Pakistan. He also spoke about the challenges of bowling during the death overs, calling it one of the toughest roles in modern cricket.
The fast bowler also praised the Pakistan Super League (PSL), which is set to enter its 11th edition in March. He said the league has grown into a major competition and will continue to attract more overseas players in the future.
