Pakistan lost the 2nd consecutive T20I vs NZ [Source: @iamAhmadhaseeb/X]

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Pakistan sustained their poor run in T20Is, losing the second game of the ongoing five-match series against New Zealand. After a humiliating defeat in the first T20I in Christchurch, the Men in Green went down to the Kiwis in the subsequent affair in Dunedin. 

Haris Rauf Takes On Pakistan’s Critics

Led by Salman Ali Agha, Pakistan incurred another heavy defeat, conceding a crucial two-nil lead to New Zealand. The visitors earned massive backlash for their repeated failures in the series. 

However, ace fast bowler Haris Rauf called the criticism unnecessary, backing the youngsters for a turnaround in the upcoming matches. 

In the post-match press conference, Rauf stated that the critics wait for Pakistan to lose so that they could take digs at them. 

“Everyone has their own opinion, and they are free to express it, but criticism has become a routine in Pakistan cricket. We are fully supporting both senior and junior players and are working on building a strong team,” Rauf said. 

He also blamed poor luck for Pakistan’s defeat, highlighting how top-edges from New Zealand batters went for boundaries. 

“Some of the shots played by New Zealand’s batters were unfortunate for our bowlers. Even top edges were going for sixes. Our bowling unit was trying its best, but the results didn’t go in our favour,” Rauf added. 

How Did Haris Rauf Perform In 2nd T20I?

Haris Rauf, who didn’t play the first T20I, replaced Abrar Ahmed in Pakistan’s playing XI for the second game. Although Pakistan lost the game, Rauf bowled brilliantly, scalping two crucial wickets for 20 runs in three overs.