Haris Rauf Under Fire: Wasim Akram Slams Pakistan Pacer After Asia Cup 2025 Final

India Clinches Ninth Asia Cup Title

India once again defeated Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final, securing their ninth championship trophy. While Indian players celebrated another historic win, Pakistan legend Wasim Akram expressed mixed emotions—praising India’s performance but openly criticizing Pakistan’s captaincy decisions and the bowling display of Haris Rauf.

Akram Calls Haris Rauf a “Run-Machine”

During a post-match discussion on Sony Sports Network, Akram did not hold back:

“Too many mistakes from Pakistan’s captain. Bowling changes were poor. Haris Rauf conceded 15 runs in one over. He has become a run machine, especially against India. I’m not the only one criticizing him—the whole country is. He doesn’t play red-ball cricket and refused to be part of the Test team. At least play four or five first-class matches to gain experience,” Akram said.

His remarks came after Rauf’s disappointing figures of 0/50 in four overs, a performance that shifted momentum in India’s favor.

Crucial Overs That Cost Pakistan

Pakistan needed to defend 64 runs in the last six overs. Captain Salman Agha trusted Rauf with the 15th over, hoping his pace would deliver. Instead, Rauf leaked 17 runs, releasing the pressure Pakistan had built. Even in the 18th over, though he bowled better, he conceded a six off the last delivery—allowing India to chase down the total in style.

Lack of Red-Ball Cricket Experience

Akram further criticized Rauf’s decision to focus only on T20 cricket and franchise leagues after retiring from Tests. According to him, Rauf’s lack of first-class cricket experience has left him mentally unprepared for high-pressure moments.

“If a bowler refuses to play red-ball cricket, he will never develop the temperament needed for crunch situations,” Akram stressed.

He even suggested that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) make it mandatory for players to participate in domestic red-ball cricket if they want to represent the country in T20 internationals.

Wasim Akram’s Tough Verdict

Akram’s words reflect growing concerns within Pakistan cricket about over-reliance on T20 leagues. With India dominating the Asia Cup final, Pakistan now faces serious questions about team selection, leadership, and the development of bowlers like Haris Rauf.