Pakistan Pacer Teased By Virat Kohli? Leaks Personal Chat With Indian Batter

The last few clashes between India and Pakistan were quite close in margins, as the players from both sides enjoyed the environment in the tight encounters. The blue brigade came out on the right side of the result in the last three consecutive clashes from 2022.

The Rohit Sharma-led side grabbed a fine victory in the 2022 T20 World Cup thanks to Virat Kohli’s superb unbeaten knock of 82 runs at the Melbourne Cricket Ground. Their exceptional bowling performances carried them over the line in both the 2023 ODI World Cup and the 2024 T20 World Cup.

Pakistan’s pacer reveals personal conversation with Virat Kohli.

During Kohli’s famous MCG knock in 2022, Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf was smashed for two consecutive over boundaries, one of which surprised the entire world that went over the bowler’s head for an over boundary.

Also Read: “Sachin Tendulkar Or Virat Kohli?”- Virender Sehwag Names The No.1 Among His Top 5 ODI Batters

Recalling the moment, Rauf expressed that Virat never teased him for those two over boundaries in that over and added that the former Indian captain is a world-class batter and can take charge of any bowler in the world.

“Never, Kohli never said a word about those sixes, and all the talk on social media is rubbish. Everyone praises Kohli for his batting, and he is a world-class player. I always have fun bonding with him.” Harif Rauf addressed this during a recent interaction on Telecom Asia Sport.

The 31-year-old pacer finished with figures of 2/36 in his four overs at an economy rate of nine. In 46 ODIs, the pacer has picked up 83 wickets at an average of 25.73 and a strike rate of around 27, thanks to a couple of five-wicket hauls at the best bowling figure of 5/18 in an inning.

Pakistan’s veteran pacer is aware of the challenge against India at the Dubai International Stadium in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on February 23.

“With his world-class batting, Kohli poses a stiff challenge to any bowler, and it's the same with me. I relish that challenge, and when we play against India in Dubai come Sunday, it will be a match full of challenges. The best thing about bowling is you learn a lot of things in that match.” Rauf added.

Haris Rauf is confident about playing the Champions Trophy 2025 opener

One of the reasons for Pakistan to win three successive bilateral ODI series in Australia, Zimbabwe, and South Africa was Rauf’s expressive bowling in the middle overs. His action of leaving the ground during the tri-series against New Zealand grew concerns among the fans and players of the side.

“I am recovering well and have bowled with speed in the training session, so it looks good for Wednesday. I am satisfied with myself, but it will be up to the management to decide on my inclusion.” The Rawalpindi-born showed confidence.

The pacer feels they have enough spin bowling options like Khusdil Shah and Salman Agha, along with the sole specialist, Abrar Ahmed, in the squad.

Also Read: ‘Rohit Sharma Way Better Than Virat Kohli And Babar Azam- Ex-Pakistan Cricketer

“We do not have only one spinner, and can use Khusdil Shah and Salman Agha, and whoever is in good form will be useful. Pakistan is staging a global event after a long, long time so, it's my wish that I play a part in the team's triumph and we can defend our title.” Harif Rauf concluded.

Pakistan is to face India on February 23 in Dubai

After the opening game against the Blackcaps on February 19, Pakistan will shift their focus to the mouth-watering clash against India in Dubai. They will then return in Rawalpindi to take on Bangladesh in the last group stage fixture.

The Mohammad Rizwan-led side will hope to improve their performance in the tri-series, depending on their 2019 World Cup title.