Rauf lands Pakistan contract

Abdur Rauf has reason to celebrate after winning a central contact with the PCB

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Fast bowler Abdur Rauf has been awarded a central contract by the Pakistan Cricket Board following intervention from chairman Ijaz Butt.

The PCB came in for criticism from former players and board officials after handing contracts to 26 players, including controversial fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar.

The list - compiled by coach Intikhab Alam, manager Yawar Saeed and chief selector Abdul Qadir - was based on seniority, meaning promising seamer Rauf was ignored as he has played just four one-day internationals.

“I am really sad at not being considered for the contract,” he said at the time. “I don't understand why they ignored me.”

However, PCB chairman Butt, after consultation with chief selector Qadir, ordered Rauf be handed a central contract.

The fast bowler, who made his one-day debut against Zimbabwe last year, has collected eight wickets at an average of 26.50.