Haris Rauf backs Saim Ayub, Azam Khan despite recent form slump

Fast bowler Haris Rauf has thrown his support behind young cricketers Saim Ayub and Azam Khan, despite their underwhelming performances in Pakistan's second T20I against England.

The match saw Saim Ayub scoring 2 runs off 7 balls and Azam Khan managing 11 runs off 10 deliveries. These performances have drawn criticism from some quarters, but Rauf remains steadfast in his belief in their potential.

Speaking a presser ahead of third T20I against England, Rauf showed his trust in both the players.

"Sometimes your performance as a player might not be up to the mark. But you should have confidence in your abilities, and just like that player has won matches on numerous occasions in the past at different stages. We can never doubt them. Obviously, when you back such players, their innings will click, and they will start delivering better performances," Rauf said.

It is worth noting that Pakistan lost the second T20I to England in Birmingham by 23 runs, getting bowled out for 160 while chasing a target of 184. The third T20I of the series will be played on Tuesday in Cardiff.