Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf apologises for his 'throat-slashing' celebration in BBL

Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has been in a special form in the ongoing Big Bash League (BBL) as he has picked 10 wickets in three games so far for Melbourne Stars. However, the  26-year-old seamer who made his first-class debut only last year and is yet to play for his country has come under criticism for a bizarre act it is his throat-slashing gesture after taking wickets in the T20 competition where he made his debut in this on-going season.

Rauf faced flak for his unique celebration during the game against  Sydney Thunder on Thursday and he apologised for the same. In his celebration, the pacer is seen indicating slitting his throat and following it up with an aggressive body language towards the departing batsman.

Haris Rauf’s Qalandars coach not impressed with his bizarre celebration

According to a report by Cricket Pakistan, Aaqib Javed, the head coach of the Lahore Qalandars — who Rauf represents in the Pakistan Super League (PSL), was not impressed with Rauf’s gesture and sought that he stopped making it. He said Rauf has apologised after that.

“Haris apologised for his inappropriate celebration after I told him that such a thing is against the moral code observed by the Qalandars,” Javed said. “He also vowed to observe restraint in this regard during future matches.”

Former Australia rugby player Darryl Brohman also expressed his displeasure with Rauf’s celebration. “Not sure we need the throat-cutting gesture from Haris Rauf every time he takes a wicket. Clearly a very good bowler but the post wicket antics are over the top. Who’s with me,” he had tweeted.

Rauf, who had to sit out in the next game after taking five wickets against Hobart Hurricanes to make way for the experienced Dale Steyn, is among the top wicket-takers of the BBL 2019-20 at an impressive average of 7.10.

Haris’ form in the BBL has made Pakistan bowling coach Waqar Younis think of including him in the national side soon. He also said of having spoken to head coach-cum-chief selector Misbah-ul-Haq to bring the youngster in the national pace-bowling department after finding his form and approach in the PSL and BBL impressive.

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