Full Name: Haris Rauf Date of Birth: November 7, 1993 Birthplace: Rawalpindi, Punjab, Pakistan Position: Strike bowler in T20Is and ODIs Haris Rauf’s story is the stuff of cricketing dreams — a boy from the streets of Rawalpindi with no formal coaching, who went from playing tape-ball cricket to bowling 150+ km/h thunderbolts on the world stage. His raw speed, infectious energy, and underdog journey have made him a fan favorite and a symbol of modern-day grit in Pakistan cricket. Raised in a modest household, Haris had no access to cricket academies. His early days were spent on the streets and in local parks playing tape-ball cricket, where he first showcased his fast-bowling abilities. Interestingly, cricket wasn’t his first passion — Haris was more inclined toward football and even represented his school in inter-city tournaments. But fate had something else planned. His life changed in 2017, when he was spotted by Lahore Qalandars’ talent hunt program. Coach Aaqib Javed saw something special in Haris — raw pace, athleticism, and the hunger to learn. Haris was selected for the Qalandars’ development squad and soon sent to Australia for training. His performance in the Big Bash League for Melbourne Stars in 2019–20 turned heads, particularly a hat-trick that showed the world that Pakistan had unearthed a serious pace talent. Haris made his Pakistan debut in T20Is in 2020, and he has since become one of the most trusted fast bowlers in the shorter formats. Known for his searing yorkers, sharp bouncers, and unrelenting pace, Haris thrives in high-pressure death-over situations. He’s been instrumental in Pakistan’s T20 success, forming a potent pace trio alongside Shaheen Afridi and Naseem Shah. His performance in the 2021 T20 World Cup was crucial, where he consistently delivered match-turning overs. Haris’ express pace, especially under lights, made him a nightmare for batters. In 2022, he helped Pakistan reach the final of the T20 World Cup in Australia, bowling some of the toughest overs under pressure and earning plaudits for his temperament. Off the field, Haris is grounded and respectful. He often credits his mother’s prayers and the Qalandars’ management for shaping his career. His journey from selling goods at a shop in Rawalpindi to playing in World Cups has inspired many. He has also become an advocate for youth development, working with Lahore Qalandars to help identify and mentor future stars. Haris Rauf is not just a fast bowler — he’s a story of hope, hard work, and belief. With over 100 T20I wickets in record time and growing impact in ODIs, he’s now evolving into a more complete pacer. His fearless body language, love for the game, and sheer passion for representing Pakistan make him a cornerstone of Pakistan’s bowling arsenal. As long as Haris Rauf steams in, the thrill of fast bowling will remain alive in Pakistan cricket.