Fast bowler Haris Rauf is likely to miss selection for Pakistan’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, sources said on Tuesday. The tournament will run from February 7 to March 8 across India and Sri Lanka.
Sources said selectors do not plan to include Rauf in the final 15-member squad. He last played a T20I for Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final against India. In that match, he conceded 50 runs in 3.4 overs without taking a wicket.
Head coach Mike Hesson reportedly raised concerns after that performance. India chased a modest 147-run target in 19.4 overs to secure the title.
Despite this setback, Rauf remains Pakistan’s leading T20I wicket-taker. He has claimed 133 wickets in 94 matches. He currently plays in Australia’s Big Bash League for the Melbourne Stars.
Last week, Geo News reported that selection talks had begun for the World Cup and the upcoming home T20I series against Australia. The Pakistan Cricket Board has already submitted a provisional squad to the ICC. Officials can revise that list without approval until January 31.
Probable squad members include captain Salman Ali Agha, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Usman Khan, and Abrar Ahmed.
Selectors are also considering Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Salman Mirza, and Khawaja Nafay. Abdul Samad, Mohammad Wasim Jr, and Usman Tariq are likely reserve options.
Pakistan will compete in Group A with India, the USA, the Netherlands, and Namibia. The team will play all group matches in Sri Lanka.
Pakistan will open their campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo. They face the USA on February 10, India on February 15, and Namibia on February 18. Super Eight matches will take place in Colombo and Kandy.
