Pakistani fast bowler Haris Rauf narrowly avoided a frightening on-field collision during a Big Bash League match, leaving fans and players visibly shaken.
The incident took place during the 14th BBL fixture between Melbourne Stars and Sydney Thunder on Sunday. Rauf delivered an outstanding all-round performance for the Stars. He picked up three key wickets for 29 runs and earned the Man of the Match award.
The scare unfolded in the final over of Sydney Thunder’s innings. On the fourth ball, batter Reece Topley launched a towering shot into the air.
Rauf sprinted in from short third man as Hilton Cartwright charged from deep point. Both fielders dived full stretch for the catch and came dangerously close to colliding head-on.
LOOK OUT 🫣
This could have been awful. #BBL15 pic.twitter.com/wJTnyNLSCm
— KFC Big Bash League (@BBL) December 28, 2025Players, commentators, and spectators held their breath as the two narrowly missed each other. Observers in the commentary box described the moment as extremely dangerous and capable of causing serious injury.
Read: Haris Rauf Leads Melbourne Stars to Top of BBL Standings With Dominant Win
Thankfully, both Rauf and Cartwright avoided contact. They immediately checked on one another before play resumed. Neither player suffered any injury. While the match continued without further incident, the moment underscored the importance of clear communication and awareness in the field.
Cricket analysts noted that such close calls serve as a reminder of the risks involved in high-speed fielding, especially under pressure in the final overs.
