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SHARJAH: Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf was visibly frustrated with a journalist after his side’s 39-run victory over Afghanistan in the opening game of the tri-nation T20I series at the Sharjah Cricket Stadium on Friday.
Rauf, who starred with the ball by claiming 4-31, played a decisive role in setting up Pakistan’s win.
However, the press interaction turned tense when a journalist downplayed the significance of the fixture, calling it little more than preparation for next month’s Asia Cup 2025.
The 31-year-old pacer firmly rejected the suggestion.
“You are saying it was a practice match, but in my opinion, no international match is ever just preparation,” he said.
“Every international game carries pressure, and you can’t approach it casually. Whatever your best XI is, you always try to execute the given plans.”
The situation escalated when the same journalist bluntly remarked, “Pakistan ki fielding bekaar thi” (Pakistan’s fielding was poor).
Haris Rauf, caught off guard by the comment, reacted with visible irritation before defending his team.
“I think you might not have watched the match properly. We didn’t make such mistakes in our fielding. Maybe if you review it again, you will see the match actually looked good,” he retorted.
Rauf also dismissed suggestions that Afghanistan entered the contest as favorites.
“I never thought anyone could be favorites over us. We are the biggest favorites,” he stated confidently.
The fast bowler also stressed the importance of leadership and unity within the side, making it clear that respect for the captain is non-negotiable.
“Whoever is the captain of Pakistan is a respectable person in my eyes. For me, any captain of Pakistan deserves the same respect, no matter who it is,” he further stated.
“As players, we will give him that respect, maintain good communication, and on the field, it becomes easier to execute plans. There should be strong bonding, and your messages must always be fair and clear.”
Pakistan will next take on the hosts, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), later today at the same venue.
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