Rauf backs Pakistan’s youngsters: ‘Give them 10 to 15 matches, that is how they become players’ in 2025.
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In recent discussions surrounding Pakistan’s cricketing future, fast bowler Haris Rauf has emerged as a vocal advocate for the nation’s young talent. Following Pakistan’s defeat to New Zealand in the second T20I of their five-match series, Rauf emphasized the necessity of providing emerging players with extended opportunities to prove their mettle on the international stage.
Advocacy for Young Talent Rauf backs Pakistan
Addressing the media post-match, Rauf highlighted a prevailing issue within Pakistani cricket: the impatience towards young players. He remarked, “You talk about criticism, I think it has become common in Pakistan. These are young players. You go to any place, any team in the world, they give the youngsters full freedom. If they give the youngsters a chance, they make sure to give them 10 to 15 matches at a stretch. That is how they become players.” citeturn0search5
Rauf’s perspective is rooted in the belief that consistent exposure and experience are crucial for the development of cricketers. He noted that initial struggles are a natural part of transitioning to international cricket, and it’s essential to allow young talents the space to learn and adapt without the looming pressure of immediate performance.
Cultural Context and Challenges Rauf backs Pakistan
The impatience Rauf references is not unfounded. Pakistan’s cricketing landscape has often witnessed rapid changes, with frequent alterations in team selection, leadership, and coaching staff. This environment, while aiming for excellence, sometimes overlooks the importance of nurturing young talent through sustained opportunities.
Rauf also pointed out a cultural nuance, stating that there’s a tendency among fans and critics to anticipate the team’s shortcomings, waiting for losses to validate their criticisms. He expressed, “It is now a common thing in Pakistan to criticise players. Everyone just sits and waits for the Pakistan team to lose so that they can talk about it.” citeturn0search8
Personal Journey and Development Initiatives Rauf backs Pakistan
Haris Rauf’s own journey from a tennis ball bowler in his hometown to representing Pakistan internationally is a testament to the potential within the country’s grassroots. His rise was significantly bolstered by the Lahore Qalandars’ Players Development Program (PDP), which identifies and nurtures emerging cricketers not previously integrated into Pakistan’s domestic system. Through trials across various cities and subsequent training at the Qalandars High-Performance Center, players like Rauf have transitioned to professional cricket, with some even securing contracts in international leagues. citeturn0search9
Looking Ahead Rauf backs Pakistan
For Pakistan’s cricketing ecosystem to thrive, a paradigm shift is essential—one that balances the pursuit of immediate results with the foresight of long-term player development. Haris Rauf’s advocacy for giving young players a substantial run of matches aligns with global best practices, where nurturing talent through experience is deemed vital for sustained success. As fans and stakeholders, embracing this approach could very well be the catalyst for a rejuvenated and competitive Pakistani cricket team in the years to come.
