'We have to think about posting 350 first': Rauf on need for bigger totals

Haris Rauf (Agency Photo)

Pakistan fast bowler Haris Rauf has explained his role alongside Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, saying their main job is to take important wickets and help the team win matches.Speaking to the media in Lahore, Rauf highlighted the importance of teamwork as Pakistan look to continue their strong performance in the ongoing ODI tri-series.“My role, along with Naseem and Shaheen, is to take wickets for the team. This is a team game, and everyone is supporting one another,” Rauf said.

He also praised Shaheen’s presence in the bowling attack, saying his inclusion gives Pakistan an added advantage.“Having Shaheen in the team is always beneficial,” he added.

Pakistan’s bowling plans and growing run rates

Pakistan have started the tri-series well, winning their opening matches against Sri Lanka and England.

Rauf said successfully defending a total of 300 runs was encouraging, but teams now need to score more runs because modern-day cricket has become more aggressive.“Defending 300 runs is a good sign. Our effort is to ensure that the bowling unit continues to perform well. When teams are scoring more than 300 or 400 runs, we also have to think about posting totals of 350 and defending them,” he said.Rauf also stressed that taking wickets during the middle overs is important to stop opposition batters from scoring freely and building strong partnerships.

“You have to take wickets in the middle overs. Wherever you play in the world, runs are scored because cricket has changed,” he remarked.

Rauf focuses on pace as Pakistan prepare for England

Rauf believes fast bowlers remain a major weapon in modern cricket. He said he is working on improving his fitness and speed to become more effective for Pakistan, while keeping his attention on performances rather than criticism.

“A fast bowler is an X-factor in today’s cricket. I continue to work on my fitness and pace so that I can give people fewer reasons to talk,” he said.The pacer also backed Pakistan batters Saim Ayub and Fakhar Zaman to deliver important contributions in the remaining matches.After beating Sri Lanka and England, Pakistan will return to action against England in the fourth match of the tri-series at Lahore’s Gaddafi Stadium on Sunday, following a two-day break.The team will aim to maintain its winning momentum with strong performances from both its batting and bowling units.