Wasim Akram Criticizes Haris Rauf After Pakistan’s Asia Cup Final Loss to India: “He Refused to be in the Team”

Wasim Akram lauds India’s victory while criticizing Haris Rauf’s bowling and limited red-ball cricket experience.

Wasim Akram Criticises Pakistan Captaincy and Haris Rauf After Asia Cup Final Loss

India once again emerged victorious over their arch-rivals, defeating Pakistan in the final of the Asia Cup 2025 to claim their ninth title. Pakistan legend Wasim Akram appeared relatively pleased with the team’s overall performance but did not hold back on critiquing the captaincy and the bowling of pacer Haris Rauf.

In the post-match show, Akram said, “A lot of mistakes made by the Pakistan captain. Bowling changes, Haris Rauf went for 15 runs. He is, unfortunately, a run machine, especially against India. I am not criticising him alone; the whole country is. He does not play red-ball cricket. He refused to be in the team, at least play four or five first-class games.”

Akram’s criticism aligns with Rauf’s performance in the final, as expectations had been high for the express pacer to use his X-factor to turn the game in Pakistan’s favor.

Haris Rauf receives deserved criticism

Given his role as a premier bowler, Pakistan captain Salman Ali Agha entrusted Haris Rauf with the 15th over, when India needed 64 runs off six. Pakistan’s task was simple: close out the over. However, Rauf aimed for wickets instead and conceded 17 runs, releasing the pressure on India.

Even in the 18th over, Rauf bowled well but failed to contain the scoring, giving away a six off the last ball. These crucial moments contributed to Pakistan’s narrow defeat in the most important match of the tournament.

Wasim Akram also highlighted Rauf’s focus on T20 cricket, noting that the pacer has retired from Test cricket and prioritised franchise leagues around the world. According to Akram, this lack of red-ball experience affected Rauf’s temperament in high-pressure situations.

Akram did not stop there, reiterating that Rauf’s limited exposure to first-class cricket hindered his ability to perform under pressure. He even suggested that Pakistan should consider making first-class cricket mandatory in player contracts to ensure T20 specialists develop the mental strength required for crucial matches.

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