Fast bowler Haris Rauf appears increasingly likely to miss out on a place in Pakistan’s squad for the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026. According to multiple reports from well-informed Pakistani media sources. While no official announcement has yet been made, indications from within the Pakistan cricket setup suggest.
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The selectors and team management have moved on from the experienced pacer as they shape their plans for the global tournament. The T20 World Cup 2026 will be co-hosted by India and Sri Lanka and is scheduled to take place from February 7 to March 8.
Pakistan has been placed in Group A alongside India, the United States, the Netherlands, and Namibia. All of Pakistan’s group-stage matches will be played in Sri Lanka, with the team set to open its campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo.
Rauf, despite being Pakistan’s most successful bowler in T20 Internationals, has not represented the national side in the format. Since the Asia Cup 2025 final against India in September last year. That match proved to be a difficult outing for the right-arm fast bowler, as he conceded 50 runs in just 3.4 overs without taking a wicket.
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Asia Cup Setback Continues to Haunt Haris Rauf’s T20 World Cup Hopes
India went on to successfully chase down Pakistan’s modest target of 147 runs in 19.4 overs, winning the title with five wickets to spare. Since that high-profile defeat, Rauf has remained absent from Pakistan’s T20I squads. His prolonged exclusion has raised questions about his standing within the team.
With selectors reportedly concerned about his recent form, fitness levels, and overall suitability within the current white-ball setup. During this period, Pakistan has tested several fast-bowling options in bilateral series and tournaments. And Rauf’s non-involvement has worked against his chances of a recall.
White-ball head coach Mike Hesson is believed to have played a key role in the decision-making process. According to sources, Hesson is not in favour of including Rauf in the final 15-member World Cup squad.
The coach is said to have reservations about Rauf’s ability to perform consistently under pressure, particularly in high-stakes matches. As a result, the team management appears keen to focus on bowlers who have either impressed recently or fit more clearly into long-term plans.
Pakistan’s selection strategy seems to be centred around a core group of fast bowlers who have been regulars in recent squads. Names such as Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah are expected to form the backbone of the pace attack.
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T20 World Cup Final: Pakistan Turns to Youth as World Cup Plans Take Shape
Alongside other emerging or reliable options that have been given opportunities over the past year. Hesson is also reportedly keen on backing younger talents who can be developed with an eye on future tournaments. At present, Rauf is plying his trade in Australia’s Big Bash League, representing the Melbourne Stars.
While his performances in franchise cricket continue to attract attention. They do not appear to have been enough to shift the thinking of Pakistan’s selectors ahead of the World Cup. Reports also indicate that the Pakistan Cricket Board has already submitted a preliminary list of players to the ICC for the T20 World Cup 2026.
However, changes to that list can still be made without ICC approval until January 31. Leaving room for last-minute adjustments if required. Sources suggest that the group of probable players includes captain Salman Ali Agha, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Babar Azam, Shadab Khan, and Faheem Ashraf.
Mohammad Nawaz, Usman Khan, and Abrar Ahmed. Other players under consideration reportedly include Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Salman Mirza, and Khawaja Nafay. Abdul Samad, Mohammad Wasim Jr, and Usman Tariq are likely to be named as reserve players.
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