India lifted their 9th Asia Cup title after defeating Pakistan in the Asia Cup 2025 final. While the Men in Blue celebrated, legendary fast bowler Wasim Akram did not hold back from criticizing Haris Rauf’s poor bowling performance and questioning his lack of red-ball cricket experience.
India Clinch Asia Cup 2025 Title
India once again proved their dominance over arch-rivals Pakistan, securing the Asia Cup 2025 trophy in a high-pressure final. Despite Pakistan showing signs of improvement, Haris Rauf’s expensive spell became one of the major turning points in the game.
Wasim Akram Slams Haris Rauf’s Bowling
Speaking on Sony Sports Network, Akram called Rauf a “run machine against India,” highlighting his failure to deliver under pressure.
“A lot of mistakes were made by the Pakistan captain. Bowling changes were poor, and Haris Rauf gave away 15 runs. Unfortunately, he has become a run machine, especially against India. He does not play red-ball cricket. He refused to join the Test team. At least play four or five first-class games,” Akram said.
Rauf’s figures of 0/50 in four overs left Pakistan struggling as India capitalized in the final overs.
Turning Point in the Match
Pakistan captain Salman Agha trusted Rauf with the crucial 15th over, when India required 64 runs off 36 balls. Instead of building pressure, the pacer conceded 17 runs, shifting the momentum in India’s favor.
Even in the 18th over, Rauf bowled well initially but ended up conceding a six on the last delivery. India’s batters took advantage and eventually chased down the target to seal the victory.
Akram Questions Lack of Red-Ball Cricket
The Pakistan legend strongly criticized Rauf’s decision to focus only on T20 cricket and franchise leagues. Since Rauf retired from Test cricket, Akram believes his temperament and match awareness have suffered.
“The lack of first-class cricket has not built his temperament to handle pressure. Pakistan must add a clause in player contracts – if you want to play T20Is, you must also play domestic red-ball cricket,” Akram added.
Haris Rauf Faces Growing Criticism
The defeat and Rauf’s underwhelming spell have sparked criticism across Pakistan. Fans and experts believe that without exposure to long-format cricket, Pakistan’s bowlers fail to handle crunch moments in major tournaments.
With India once again winning the Asia Cup final, Pakistan’s search for stability in their pace attack continues – and Haris Rauf is under the spotlight more than ever.
