Haris Rauf Nominated for ICC Player of Month award

The International Cricket Council (ICC) has unveiled the Men’s Player of the Month nominees award, with Pakistan’s Haris Rauf earning a spot on the shortlist for his remarkable performances in October.

Joining Haris on the list are India’s Jasprit Bumrah and South Africa’s Marco Jansen. This nomination underscores Haris Rauf’s exceptional contributions to Pakistan cricket, showcasing his continued rise as a key figure in the international arena. The winner will be chosen through fan votes and input from a panel of experts.

Haris Rauf’s standout moment came in the second ODI against Australia. He delivered a sensational performance, taking 5 wickets for just 29 runs in 8 overs.

This effort not only gave Pakistan a significant edge in the match but also marked a significant milestone in Rauf’s ODI career.

Since making his international debut on October 30, 2020, Rauf has become a formidable force in world cricket, rising through Lahore Qalandars’ player development program.

His latest five-wicket haul brought his total to 77 wickets in 39 matches—more than any other fast bowler from a full-member team during this period.

The only bowler with more wickets since Rauf’s debut is Oman’s Bilal Khan, who has taken 83 wickets. However, as Oman is an ICC Associate Member team, Rauf’s record is particularly notable among players from full-member nations.

Rauf’s achievement also set a new benchmark for Pakistan cricket. With 77 wickets in his first 39 ODIs, he surpassed the previous record of 76 wickets, shared by legendary spinner Saqlain Mushtaq and fellow fast bowler Shaheen Afridi.

This accomplishment solidifies Rauf’s position as one of the top fast bowlers in modern cricket.

Globally, Rauf’s numbers compare impressively with other leading pacers. Australia’s Mitchell Starc, for instance, claimed 79 wickets in his first 39 ODIs, while Bilal Khan leads with 83.

Nevertheless, Rauf’s record remains a testament to his exceptional talent and consistency in international cricket.