RAWALPINDI — Pakistan – After a tough time on the sidelines and a season of grinding it out in domestic cricket, fast bowler Haris Rauf returned with vengeance in the first One‑Day International against Sri Lanka, tearing through the top order with figures of 4‑61 to steer Pakistan to a dramatic six‑run victory at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Rauf broke the dangerous 85‑run opening partnership by claiming back‑to‑back wickets, dismissing Kamil Mishara and Kusal Mendis within two deliveries. He then partnered with skipper Babar Azam in engineering another pivotal breakthrough that tilted momentum firmly in Pakistan’s favour.
Reflecting on his comeback, Rauf admitted his recent recall to domestic cricket—especially the longer four‑day games—had been crucial. “One‑dayers demand stamina and rhythm, so I used the domestic grind to rebuild myself,” he said, adding that this win assured him the risk was worth it.
Pakistan’s batting recovery laid the foundation, but it was Rauf’s fierce return to form that sealed the deal. Now, as the series unfolds, the 32‑year‑old will be central to Pakistan’s hopes of dominating home conditions and regaining their edge in fast‑bowling strategy.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.