Asia Cup: Pakistan's Haris Rauf blocks out noise amid boycott row

Play was delayed by over an hour due to the uncertainty of Pakistan's participation. On Sunday, match referee Andy Pycroft prohibited India and Pakistan captains from shaking hands ahead of their clash, drawing the ire of the Pakistan Cricket Board. The PCB then threatened to boycott its next fixture and demanded an apology from Pycroft.  

But with the incident eventually cleared up and labelled a "miscommunication" players eventually took the field in Dubai. Pakistan laboured to a 41-run victory over the UAE, booking their place in the Super Fours.

Despite the delayed start, Rauf claimed the players were not distracted by the sideshow.

"I wasn't feeling any pressure. This is not in my control. These are decisions for the board; it's their headache," said Rauf, who picked up 2/19.

"For me, I had to play the match, my focus was on that. The management have handled things pretty well.

"It's not my domain to speak on who plays and who doesn't - that's for the coaches and captain. As a player, if we get the opportunity, it's on us to make the most of it. As for the batsmen, I'm sure they are discussing things among themselves. We have a few days before the next game, so hopefully we can prepare well."

Pakistan face India again on Sunday.