"Haroon Rasheed

Haroon Rasheed, a name familiar to many followers of Pakistan cricket, has worn many hats — from a talented batsman in the 1970s to a seasoned cricket administrator and selector. His journey reflects the evolution of Pakistan’s cricket over the decades, and his personal story is marked by both triumph and controversy.

Born on March 25, 1953, in Karachi, Haroon Rasheed’s early years were shaped by the buzzing cricket culture of the city. A gifted right-handed batsman, he quickly rose through the ranks of domestic cricket with his technique and determination. His performances in local tournaments caught the attention of selectors, and soon he was representing Karachi and later, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) — one of the most prestigious domestic teams of the time.

Haroon made his Test debut for Pakistan against the West Indies in 1977, a series remembered for the fierce fast bowling of the Caribbean legends. Despite the tough challenge, he showed resilience and composure at the crease. His highest Test score of 153 came against India in 1978 in Karachi, an innings that highlighted his ability to build partnerships and anchor an innings under pressure. His Test career, however, was relatively short, spanning just 23 matches in which he scored 1,217 runs at an average of 34.77, including three centuries and six fifties.

One of the most dramatic episodes of Haroon Rasheed’s playing career occurred during the 1979 series against Australia. After a string of low scores, he was dropped from the team. This led to a bizarre and tragic incident — an angry fan, upset over his performance, physically assaulted him in a public place. This unfortunate event not only shook him personally but also highlighted the intense scrutiny and pressure that Pakistani cricketers face from their passionate fans.

Following his retirement from professional cricket, Haroon Rasheed did not walk away from the game. Instead, he transitioned into coaching and later into cricket administration. He served as a coach for various junior teams and was often involved in talent development programs, helping identify and nurture the next generation of Pakistani cricketers. His understanding of the game and experience made him a valuable asset for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

In the 2000s and 2010s, Haroon Rasheed became a regular figure in the PCB setup. He held various roles including that of a national selector and development director. As chief selector, he was often in the spotlight, facing criticism and praise alike for the teams he helped assemble. His tenure was marked by bold decisions — including the selection of young and relatively unknown players who later went on to become key figures in the national team.

However, like many in the turbulent world of cricket administration in Pakistan, Haroon Rasheed's career was not without controversy. He was often accused of favoritism, inconsistency, and making politically motivated decisions. Critics questioned the transparency of his selection policies, especially during Pakistan’s inconsistent performances in international cricket. Nonetheless, many also recognized the difficult nature of his role, having to balance public expectations, internal pressures, and the ever-changing dynamics of team performance.

Despite the ups and downs, Haroon’s commitment to Pakistan cricket remained strong. He continued to be involved with the PCB, contributing to strategic planning, youth development, and cricket operations. In 2023, he was reappointed as the chief selector once again, underlining the trust that the board still had in his experience and cricketing insight.

Haroon Rasheed’s story is, in many ways, a microcosm of Pakistan cricket itself — passionate, dramatic, unpredictable, and deeply committed to excellence. His journey from a talented batsman facing hostile fast bowlers in the 1970s to an influential voice in the cricketing corridors of Lahore speaks volumes about his resilience and adaptability.

Outside the cricket field, Haroon is known to be a thoughtful and reflective personality. He has often spoken about the pressures young players face and the importance of mental health and education alongside sports. His calls for better infrastructure, domestic reform, and transparent governance have resonated with many in the cricket community.

Today, as a senior figure in Pakistan cricket, Haroon Rasheed continues to influence the game in meaningful ways. While his name may not be as celebrated as some of Pakistan’s cricketing icons, his contributions — both as a player and administrator — have helped shape the sport’s path in the country.