'We're expected to perform like robots': Emotional Haris Rauf opens up on criticism, failure vs India, Asia Cup ban

NEW DELHI: Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf has hit back at critics questioning his consistency and temperament, saying that cricketers are “humans, not robots” and that failure is part of the game.

His emotional remarks came after delivering a match-winning spell in Pakistan's thrilling six-run win over Sri Lanka in the first ODI on Tuesday.Go Beyond The Boundary with our YouTube channel. SUBSCRIBE NOW!The fiery right-arm quick, who took 4 wickets including a decisive three-wicket burst, reflected on his recent struggles — notably his poor outing in the Asia Cup final against India, where he conceded 50 runs in just 3.4 overs, becoming Pakistan's most expensive bowler in the match.

Haris, who also served a two-match suspension for making offensive gestures during the same tournament, said the scrutiny faced by players in Pakistan is “unforgiving.”“Humare liye koi maafi nahi hoti — we are expected to perform like robots, but we are human beings and we can have bad days,” he said at the post-match press conference.

The pacer, visibly emotional, admitted that even the best plans can fall apart on a given day.

“The main thing is you don't give up. You don't die from a bad day. We keep belief in our skills and keep working on rectifying mistakes,” he added. “Any bowler can have a bad day — it's part of being a professional cricketer.”Addressing fan criticism, Rauf urged supporters to recognise the effort players put in regardless of the result.“No player likes to be criticised. You might have 10 good matches and one bad game, and everyone remembers only the bad game,” he said.

“Fans should never doubt that we try our best every time.”The 32-year-old also expressed his desire to feature in the Test format, saying he's ready whenever Pakistan's selectors call him up.“I want to play Tests for Pakistan too. I just need to be informed in advance so I can prepare for red-ball cricket properly,” he concluded.