Haris Rauf’s place in Pakistan’s T20 World Cup 2026 squad appears uncertain, with sources indicating the fast bowler could be left out of the team.

Head coach Mike Hesson is reportedly unconvinced about Rauf’s selection, particularly after his performance in the Asia Cup final against India.

KARACHI: Fast bowler Haris Rauf is expected to miss out on Pakistan’s squad for the ICC T20 World Cup 2026. Which is likely to be hosted by India and Srilanka from February 7 to March 8, sources told on Tuesday.

According to sources, Rauf is unlikely to be named in the 15-member squad. The right-arm pacer last appeared for Pakistan in the T20 format during the Asia Cup 2025 final against India and has not featured since. Team management, particularly head coach Mike Hesson, is reportedly unconvinced about Rauf’s selection following that match.

In the Asia Cup final played in September 2025, Rauf went wicketless while conceding 50 runs in 3.4 overs as India chased down a target of 147 runs with five wickets in hand and 1.2 overs to spare to clinch the title.

Despite being Pakistan’s leading wicket-taker in T20 internationals — with 133 wickets in 94 matches — Rauf is currently plying his trade in Australia’s Big Bash League, representing the Melbourne Stars.

Earlier, it was reported that discussions are underway regarding Pakistan’s squad for the T20 World Cup 2026 and the upcoming home T20I series against Australia. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has already submitted a provisional list of players to the ICC, although changes can be made without approval until January 31.

Sources suggest the probable squad includes captain Salman Ali Agha, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, Shadab Khan, Babar Azam, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Usman Khan, and Abrar Ahmed.

Meanwhile, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Naseem Shah, Salman Mirza, and Khawaja Nafay remain under consideration, while Abdul Samad, Mohammad Wasim Jr, and Usman Tariq are expected to be named as reserve players.

Pakistan has been grouped against India, the USA, the Netherlands, and Namibia. All of their group-stage matches will be played in Sri Lanka.

The Men in Green will open their World Cup campaign against the Netherlands on February 7 in Colombo, followed by fixtures against the USA on February 10, India on February 15, and Namibia on February 18.

All of Pakistan’s matches, including potential Super Eight encounters, will be held in Sri Lanka, with Colombo and Kandy set to host the later stages of the tournament.