Haris explains Australia series decision in reply to PCB’s show cause notice

Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf has responded to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following a show cause notice for opting out of the Test series in Australia.

The notice highlights that centrally contracted players must be readily available for the national team, but Rauf expressed his inability for the three matches, citing insufficient red-ball practice as the reason. He is reportedly distressed by the unjust criticism from various quarters.

Rauf incurred the PCB's wrath after turning down an offer to be part of the squad for a three-test series in Australia beginning in Perth on December 14.

Haris came in for criticism from chief selector Wahab Riaz, while team director Mohammad Hafeez told players they must put national team duty above franchise cricket.

Rauf, fellow fast bowler Zaman Khan and leg-spinner Usama Mir have been cleared to play in the Big Bash competition until Dec. 28, the board said in a statement on Monday.

"The PCB understands that this decision is in the best interests of all the stakeholders involved while balancing the importance of game time with workload management," it added.

Haris can play a maximum of five matches for Melbourne Stars, who play their last group match on Jan. 15. He is then likely to join the Pakistan squad for a five-match T20 International series in New Zealand beginning on January 12.