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PCB terminated Haris Rauf’s central contract and X is livid — kind of

PCB terminated Haris Rauf’s central contract and X is livid — kind of

Many view the decision as an unjust punishment that fails to consider Rauf's contributions to Pakistani cricket.
16 Feb, 2024

The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) termination of Haris Rauf’s central contract over his refusal to attend the Australia tour sparked a wave of reactions from cricket enthusiasts from across the globe. The move comes after Rauf allegedly declined to join Pakistan’s Test squad for the tour, citing a preference for limited-overs cricket to manage his workload.

Public opinion on the PCB’s decision seems to be sharply divided, reflecting the complexities surrounding player contracts, national team commitments, and individual career aspirations. While some support the PCB’s decision as a necessary measure to uphold contractual obligations and team discipline, others view it as an unjust punishment that fails to consider Rauf’s contributions to Pakistani cricket.

All against Haris Rauf’s removal, say ‘nay!’

Numerous supporters of Rauf have criticised the contract termination, labelling it unfair and disproportionate. Many argue that while Rauf may have declined to play Test cricket, he remains a vital asset in ODIs and T20Is, where his bowling prowess shines. One fan expressed dismay, emphasising the need to support players’ choices in managing their careers. Another likened Rauf’s decision to common workplace scenarios where individuals seek better opportunities elsewhere.

Criticism was also directed towards the PCB, with some labelling the board’s actions short-sighted and detrimental to Pakistani cricket. Critics accused the PCB of misrepresenting Rauf’s intentions and failing to recognise his value to the team, especially in white-ball cricket.

All for Haris Rauf’s termination, say ‘aye!’

Conversely, there is a faction of supporters who commend the PCB for taking a firm stance on contractual obligations. They argued that representing Pakistan in all formats of the game is a privilege that comes with responsibilities, including honouring national team commitments.

Some also lauded PCB’s decision as a step towards instilling discipline and accountability within the team, highlighting the importance of adhering to contractual agreements. They argue that Rauf’s refusal to join the Test squad represents a breach of trust and undermines the integrity of the central contract system.

Totally unrelated but all for Babar Azam, say ‘aye!’

And as is the case with every Pakistani cricket conundrum out there, the ‘if Babar Azam was captain’ conundrum also surfaced. The role of the former captain was brought into focus. Fans of Azam praised his leadership and willingness to stand up for players, contrasting it with the perceived lack of support from current leadership.

PCB’s statement

The PCB, in its statement, emphasised the importance of representing Pakistan as the ultimate honour for any sportsperson. The board reiterated that refusal to be part of the Test squad without justifiable reasons constitutes a violation of the central contract. Despite providing Rauf with a chance for a personal hearing, the PCB found his response unsatisfactory, leading to the termination of his contract.

As the dust settles, the repercussions of this decision on both Rauf’s career and Pakistan’s cricketing landscape remain to be seen.

Comments

Riaz Feb 16, 2024 04:29pm
I agree with PCB's decision. It must have been hard to cancel your only fast bowler's contract when others can't bowl closer to that speed due to injuries. But Pakistan comes first as he has a contract. If he can't honor his contract then no contract. Simple. Kudos to PCB management for that stand.
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Shazeb Ali Feb 16, 2024 04:52pm
Yes now he won’t be able to break the record of most run’s scored
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Ahmed Mughal Feb 16, 2024 04:59pm
In a way I agree with the PCB's decision on this, but in the same, how unsurprising is it to know that why players are now avoiding to play test cricket. Previously it was Aamir and Imad wasim and now it Haris Rauf. So in my opinion, PCB should see what the root cause is here
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Dr. Salaria, Aamir Ahmad Feb 16, 2024 06:10pm
What else could be expected of the hand-picked, unelected, ego-centric, non-professional and self-centered PCB at this crucial point in time and history?
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Shan Ali Khan Feb 16, 2024 07:51pm
PCB under the leadership of respected Mohsin Naqvi will achieve new heights.
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Shahzad Feb 16, 2024 09:00pm
Without doubt, the right thing to do. The way I see it, these players get their fame because of their country and their fans at 'home'. Then they've no right to abandon their country and play in a league. They earn enough money that they don't need to priorities money over country.
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Fawad Alam Feb 16, 2024 10:24pm
Good riddance
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Sikandar Naqvi Feb 17, 2024 12:45am
PCB must go with the agreed upon contract, whatever it is.
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Timur Furqan Feb 17, 2024 02:35am
Pakistanis are almost on the fence about this decision by the PCB, let's not forget this tape ball bowler who to me chucks big time but somehow he has found a loophole and thrived only till he was figured out. then he wanted to take a break regardless of how much the team needed an extra bowler due to injury to Naseem Shah. So this is a selfish person who deserves never to play again for Pakistan unless he deserves it on merit and that would have to be clear cut top of the draw performances in the QA Trophy not just PSL!
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Timur Furqan Feb 17, 2024 02:46am
I really hope this will the firm stance going forward, because as a centrally contracted player, if you forgo your commitments to play for money elsewhere, then you should not in principle have a contract with PCB and forget about playing for Pakistan because in case of rauf's case its evident his priorities lie elsewhere. Next, we need to get rid of Afridis both the father in law and his lousy left arm son in law, Pakistan u19 showed we have many talents on the horizon and we should groom youngsters and let of spent force like shaheen shah afridi. he is also no team man, let alone be captain!
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Imran Feb 17, 2024 05:23am
PCB needs to come out of it's scarcity mind set and develop an abundance mindset. Anyways PCB management is short lived with the way politics are changing in Pakistan's government politics.
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Dexter Feb 17, 2024 06:02am
Totally agree with PCB.
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dawn Feb 17, 2024 07:26am
Pakistan sports and Pakistan politics have many similarities.
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Babar Baig Feb 17, 2024 07:47am
A very big mistake and a wrong decision by PCB. Haris Rauf is a useful white ball cricketer. He bowls fast aiming at the stumps. In test cricket he will be struggling as he hasn't played any FC cricket.No experience at that level, so why sack him or terminate his contract?.
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Khwaja shirjeel Feb 17, 2024 09:50am
Very good decision, should have been banned for at least a year from international cricket. A stitch in time saves nine. No one is bigger than game.
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KM Feb 17, 2024 10:10am
Finally PCB made a decision that shows who is in charge. Players are employees of PCB and they must adhere to the signed contract. Harris wanted to make money so he decided not to play for Pakistan. Now a precedent has been set and no player in the future would dare to say no when asked to play for Pakistan. Harris showed that he prefers money over bringing pride to Pakistan.
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Fawad Alam Feb 17, 2024 11:52am
Good riddance.
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shida Feb 17, 2024 09:23pm
pcb under an experienced cricketer like mohsin naqvi will reach new heights, pun intended.
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