Former Australia cricketer backs Haris Rauf ahead of second South Africa Test

Former Australian cricketer Brad Hogg has backed the inclusion of right-arm pacer Haris Rauf in the Pakistan XI for the second Test against South Africa, due to begin from February 4 in Rawalpindi.

While replying to a question by Twitter user, Hogg said that Rauf’s extra pace and his ability to reverse swing would be an exciting addition in the Pakistan bowling attack on seamer-friendly Rawalpindi pitch.

Agreed. If Haris Rauf was to play due to extra pace, then he would replace Nauman, which creates the temptation to rotate Faheem for Nawaz for the extra spin option to exploit the South African vulnerability. Interesting times for the selectors. #PAKvSA #Cricket https://t.co/CFfOb1SQ0U

— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) January 31, 2021

Don't mind that. The way Nauman adapted to the changing conditions throughout the last test there is a big case he should stay in. Rauf with pace and hopefully reverse swing would be exciting to watch. #PAKvSA #Cricket https://t.co/1W5ZUm5rll

— Brad Hogg (@Brad_Hogg) January 31, 2021

Rauf’s selection in the 17-member Pakistan squad was not received well by few former cricketers, including former captain Inzamamul Haq and Lahore Qalandars’ head coach Aaqib Javed, due to the pacer’s inexperience in first-class cricket. The 27-year-old has only picked seven wickets in his short three-match first-class career so far.