However, recent reports suggest that Rauf was not informed about the demerit points during the official hearing regarding his ICC Code of Conduct breach.
According to the ICC, Rauf was fined 30% of his match fee and handed two demerit points for violating Article 2.21 of the Code of Conduct during the group-stage clash against India. The pacer repeated the same offence in the Asia Cup final, resulting in an identical penalty and, ultimately, a two-match ban.
Confusion over Haris Rauf’s penalty
Reports from Geo Super claim that during the disciplinary hearing, the demerit points were never discussed, and the player only learned of them afterward. The points were reportedly added without prior notice, causing confusion within the Pakistan camp.
Rauf’s on-field gestures during the games against India were reportedly influenced by heightened political and emotional tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. Along with Rauf, Sahibzada Farhan, Suryakumar Yadav, and Jasprit Bumrah also faced sanctions for their actions.
Pakistan’s ongoing series
Pakistan are currently engaged in a three-match ODI series against South Africa. After securing victory in the opening game, they’ll aim to seal the series in the second ODI before Rauf becomes eligible to return for the final match.
Rauf’s performance in the Asia Cup final had drawn significant criticism, and his omission from the T20I squad against South Africa has only intensified scrutiny. The upcoming ODI will therefore be crucial for his comeback and future in Pakistan’s white-ball setup.
