New Zealand all-rounder Jimmy Neesham has identified Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf as the most challenging bowler he has faced in international cricket, praising the fast bowler’s pace, variations, and ability to perform under pressure.
Speaking about the toughest bowlers he has encountered during his career, Neesham said Rauf is particularly difficult to face in the closing stages of T20 matches. According to the New Zealand star, Rauf’s raw speed and well-disguised slower deliveries make it difficult for batters to anticipate what is coming next.
Neesham also shared his list of the five toughest bowlers he has faced:
1. Haris Rauf (Pakistan)
2. Ravindra Jadeja (India)
3. Sunil Narine (West Indies)
4. Mitchell Johnson (Australia)
5. Dale Steyn (South Africa)
Over the years, Haris Rauf has established himself as one of Pakistan’s premier fast bowlers, especially in the T20 format. His ability to generate high pace, target the stumps consistently, and use short-pitched deliveries effectively has made him a formidable opponent for batters around the world.
Neesham and Rauf have faced each other on several occasions in international cricket, including major ICC tournaments. One of Rauf’s standout performances against New Zealand came during the 2021 T20 World Cup, when he claimed 4 wickets for 22 runs, helping Pakistan restrict New Zealand to 134/8. Pakistan went on to secure a comfortable five-wicket victory in that match.
Neesham’s remarks reflect the respect Rauf has earned on the international stage and underline the impact the Pakistani speedster continues to have in white-ball cricket.
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