Pakistan,23 Jan (ABC)-The Pakistan Cricket Board recently announced its 15-member squad for the tournament, with former captain Babar Azam included, while Rauf and Mohammad Rizwan were omitted. Speaking during an interview in Australia, the 31-year-old pacer said missing out on selection was disappointing but stressed that it did not mark the end of his international career.
Rauf acknowledged that any player would feel regret at missing a major global event but said his priority was to continue working hard and refining his bowling.
He said he had been consistently working on his skills and felt his performances had improved since the Asia Cup. The Rawalpindi-born fast bowler added that he remained confident about making a strong return through improved performances.
Rauf also extended his best wishes to the Pakistan team for the T20 World Cup, saying he hoped the side would deliver strong results in the tournament.
Addressing criticism from fans and commentators, Rauf said there was an important distinction between constructive feedback and personal attacks. He added that players feel the pain deeply when Pakistan suffer defeats.
He said he had always given his best whenever he represented the country and highlighted the difficulty of bowling in the death overs, describing it as one of the most challenging roles in modern-day cricket.
The fast bowler also praised the Pakistan Super League, which is set to enter its 11th edition in March, calling it a growing competition that continues to attract top international players.
The announced T20 World Cup squad combines experience with emerging talent. Young batter Khawaja Nafay has earned a place, while the batting lineup includes Salman Ali Agha, Sahibzada Farhan, Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman and Shadab Khan.
In the all-rounders and spin departments, Faheem Ashraf, Mohammad Nawaz, Abrar Ahmed and Usman Khan have been selected. Pakistan’s pace attack will be led by Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, whose presence is expected to strengthen the team in seam-friendly conditions.
The squad also includes Usman Tariq and Salman Mirza, both of whom impressed in domestic cricket and will now get the chance to perform on the international stage.