Haris Rauf contemplates retirement amid criticism for opting out of Australia Test Series

• Haris Rauf reportedly considered retirement after facing criticism for opting out of the Australia Test series
• Mohammad Hafeez criticized Rauf for prioritizing the Big Bash League over national duty
• Reports of internal rifts within the Pakistan cricket team surface after the T20I defeat against New Zealand

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has reportedly contemplated retirement from international cricket in the face of intense criticism following his decision to withdraw from the three-match Test series against Australia. Rauf's absence in the Test series, where Pakistan was whitewashed 0-3 by Australia, sparked controversy as he chose to participate in the Big Bash League 2023-24 instead. The decision drew disapproval from cricket director and coach Mohammad Hafeez, who criticized Rauf for prioritizing financial gains over national duty. While initial reports suggested Rauf considered ending his international career due to the backlash, he eventually reversed the decision after consulting with friends and family.

 Haris Rauf's potential retirement comes amidst a backdrop of internal strife within the Pakistan cricket team. The cricketer, currently part of the ongoing T20I series against New Zealand, faced scrutiny for opting out of the Australia Test series. In the second T20I against New Zealand, Rauf showcased his bowling prowess by taking three wickets, yet Pakistan suffered defeat as they failed to chase down the target of 195. Reports of rifts and arguments within the Men in Green dressing room surfaced after the T20I loss, indicating internal discord within the team. Pakistan cricket has faced ongoing challenges over the past year, including captain Babar Azam's resignation across all formats and internal rifts, adversely impacting the team's performance.