NOC delay may hinder Haris’ Big Bash stint

KARACHI: Pakistan’s right-arm pacer Haris Rauf’s decision to prefer the T20 league BBL over his team’s upcoming Test series against Australia can prove costly to him as PCB may postpone the issuance of No-Objection Certificate (NOC).

According to the ESPNCricinfo, Rauf’s NOC is highly likely to face a delay until at least December 11. The event starts on December 7. It is pertinent to mention that last week, Pakistan’s newly-appointed chief selector Wahab Riaz revealed that Rauf had declined participation in Pakistan’s Test series in Australia slated for December-January.

Wahab expressed disappointment at Rauf’s decision, yet both sides disagree on the specific events leading up to this point. Reportedly, the 30-year-old never agreed to play Test cricket in Australia citing his inexperience in the format.

Rauf told Wahab that he hasn’t played much Test cricket and it would be better if he worked on his white-ball game and fitness.

Rauf’s absence from the BBL is likely to cause concern within the league, particularly for Melbourne Stars, who signed the Pakistani fast bowler as a key player. Melbourne Stars have also introduced special memberships named “House of Rauf” for the initial three games at the MCG this year, as well as a dedicated seating zone called Haris Rauf Bay.

Continued delays in Rauf’s NOC issuance might raise concerns among Pakistan’s centrally contracted players in general. Two more players - Usama Mir (Melbourne Stars) and Zaman Khan (Sydney Thunders) -- have also been selected for the league. Ongoing contract discussions between the PCB and the players encountered obstacles, partly due to disagreements over the number of foreign leagues players could participate in annually.