youngsters
Rauf Backs Pakistan’s Youngsters: “Give Them 10 to 15 Matches, That Is How They Become Players”
In the fast-evolving world of international cricket, the pressure on young players to perform immediately is immense. However, seasoned players and experts often point out that cricket, like any other sport, requires time and experience to truly mature. Pakistan’s fast-bowling sensation, Haris Rauf, is one such advocate for nurturing young talent through consistent opportunities, especially in the high-pressure environment of international cricket. Rauf, with his explosive pace and fiery temperament, understands the importance of experience in shaping young cricketers into match-winners. His recent comments emphasizing the importance of giving young players the opportunity to play 10 to 15 matches for Pakistan have sparked a conversation about the long-term benefits of investing in youth.
Rauf’s Advocacy for Youth Development
The topic of youth development youngsters in Pakistan cricket has been a matter of much discussion. Despite the rich history of talent emerging from the country, there have often been concerns about the lack of consistent opportunities given to young players, especially in the face of fierce competition for spots in the national team. Many young players, despite showing promise, are dropped or sidelined too early in their careers, often before they can settle into their roles.
Haris Rauf’s comments reflect his deep belief in the process of giving young players time and exposure. As a player who came through the ranks relatively quickly, having been discovered at a tennis-ball cricket event and then rising rapidly through the ranks, Rauf understands better than most that success in international cricket isn’t about one or two standout performances but about consistency and experience. He has seen firsthand how young players can blossom into match-winners if given enough opportunities to fail, learn, and grow.
Rauf’s backing of the idea to give players 10 to 15 matches underscores his confidence in the natural progression that comes with consistent play. He’s not advocating for complacency or blind trust in underperforming players, but rather for giving them the space to evolve through match exposure.
Rauf’s Journey: From Struggles to Stardom
Haris Rauf’s own cricketing youngsters journey is an inspiring testament to the benefits of perseverance and patience. Rauf, who started as a tennis-ball cricketer, had an unconventional route to professional cricket. He initially honed his skills in the streets and local competitions, and his raw pace and promise were eventually spotted by the Lahore Qalandars, who provided him with the platform to showcase his talent.
His breakthrough came during the Pakistan Super League (PSL) when he was selected by Lahore Qalandars. His performance in the tournament catapulted him to national attention, and he made his way into the Pakistan national team in 2020. Rauf’s pace, aggression, and ability to bowl in the death overs quickly made him one of Pakistan’s leading fast bowlers.
However, his journey to the top was not without its challenges. The transition from domestic cricket and T20 leagues to international cricket is never easy. Early on in his international career, Rauf had to deal with the pressure of performing at the highest level and proving that his success in T20 cricket could translate to other formats. The ups and downs in his initial years on the international circuit gave Rauf a deeper understanding of what it takes to become a successful cricketer.
As a player who has under youngsters gone such a rapid ascent, Rauf knows how critical it is for young players to gain confidence through exposure in international matches. The patience shown in his own career has fueled his belief that the same patience should be extended to others. His advocacy for giving young players time is not just born out of personal experience but from understanding the broader picture of what it takes to develop top-tier cricketers.
Why 10 to 15 Matches?
Rauf’s specific mention of giving young players 10 to 15 matches might seem like a random number, but it actually holds significant importance. Cricket is a team sport, and the nature of the game itself means that individual players need a period of adaptation before they can consistently deliver under pressure. The first few matches can often be a learning experience, where young players are still adjusting to the rhythm, pace, and expectations of international cricket.
For a fast bowler like Rauf, the technical adjustments needed to perform well at the highest level require time and repetition. Early on, bowlers often face challenges such as fitness issues, mastering the right length and line, adapting to youngsters different playing conditions, and handling the mental pressure of international cricket. This period of learning can only truly be achieved through consistent exposure to high-pressure matches.
Rauf believes that young players must be given enough time to get used to these aspects. By playing 10 to 15 matches, a player will not only get an opportunity to adjust to various match situations but will also be able to build confidence in their abilities. Whether it’s a batsman adjusting to facing world-class bowling or a bowler learning to handle the expectations of their role, experience is key.
Furthermore, such exposure helps a player to better understand their strengths and weaknesses. It’s during these early phases that a cricketer begins to learn how to read different conditions, opponents, and match scenarios. It allows the coaching staff to understand where the player fits into the team’s overall structure, and for the player themselves, it’s a chance to grow in confidence.
The Broader Picture: Pakistan’s Cricketing Future
Haris Rauf’s comments are not just a reflection of his personal experiences but also a call for the future of Pakistan cricket. Over the years, Pakistan’s cricket team has seen many talented youngsters come and go without having enough chances youngsters to prove themselves. The national team has often been guilty of chopping and changing players, particularly in the bowling department, which can be detrimental to a player’s development.
Pakistan’s cricketing history is rich with young talent — from the legendary Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Shoaib Akhtar to more recent stars like Shaheen Shah Afridi and Babar Azam. However, the key difference between these legends and players who fell short is often the number of opportunities they received to prove their mettle.
By giving young players 10 to youngsters 15 matches, Pakistan cricket could avoid the cycle of underperformance caused by uncertainty over players’ futures. The sense of stability and trust that comes with being given a prolonged run in the team can work wonders for young cricketers. Instead of constantly looking over their shoulder, young players could focus on their craft, building relationships with their senior teammates and coaches and feeling confident in their roles within the team.
The Role of Coaches and Mentors
Rauf’s comments also highlight the importance of a strong coaching system and mentorship for young players. It is not just about throwing players into the deep end but about providing them with the right guidance to help them succeed. Having a supportive environment where players can discuss their challenges, receive technical advice, and learn from senior players is crucial.
Rauf himself has benefitted from strong mentorship and coaching throughout his career. Now, as a more experienced player, he recognizes the value of passing on this knowledge to the younger generation. His willingness to support and mentor younger bowlers, like Shaheen Afridi, reflects his belief that guidance from senior players can go a long way in shaping the next generation of cricketers.
Conclusion: A Vision for the Future of Pakistan Cricket
Haris Rauf’s plea for giving young players 10 to 15 matches is a call for patience and faith in the developmental process. It is a plea for the Pakistani cricketing fraternity to shift away from the culture of instant gratification and focus on long-term growth. Developing a strong and consistent pipeline of young talent requires time, effort, and the willingness to give players the opportunities they need to develop into world-class cricketers.
Rauf’s career is a testament to the benefits of giving players time and space to grow. His advocacy for young cricketers is a reflection of his understanding of the game and the importance of experience in developing a successful cricketing career. As Pakistan looks to build a competitive team for the future, Rauf’s message should serve as a reminder that real growth happens when young players are given the trust, exposure, and support to find their feet on the international stage.