Pakistan speedster Haris Rauf contemplated retirement from international cricket late last year after facing flak for opting out of the Test series in Australia, a Pakistan media report claimed.

According to the report, Rauf was left so saddened by the criticism that he considered international retirement at one point. However, he decided against it after being advised by his family and friends.

Ahead of three-match Test series Down Under, Rauf came under the scanner for pulling out of the tour. While announcing the squad, chief selector Wahab Riaz revealed that the fast bowler initially agreed to play Test cricket but changed his decision later on.

Haris Rauf withdrew his name citing concerns over fitness and workload management. He had also told former head coach Mickey Arthur during the Cricket World Cup in India that his body won’t be able to sustain the load of the longest format.

Arthur too had tried to persuade Rauf to participate in the Australia Test series because of his ability to generate high pace. However, the right-arm pacer consistently rejected the suggestion, citing his limited exposure in first-class cricket and concerns about potential injuries.

Having made his international debut in January 2020, Haris Rauf has played just one Test so far. He is renowned as a T20 specialist. In his only Test against England, Rauf picked up an injury after bowling just 13 overs.

The report further stated that during the World Cup last year, the 30-year-old paceman had warned the team management about his fitness and workload management concerns.

During the World Cup, Haris earned the unwanted tag of becoming the most expensive bowler as he claimed 16 wickets from nine games at an economy rate of 6.74.

(With PTI Inputs)