Players Will Be Selected Through Computerized System, Says Mohsin Naqvi

Islamabad (Kudrat Daily) — Chairman Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and Federal Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi said that a computerized and data-driven system is being introduced for the selection of cricketers in Pakistan, aiming to minimize human interference and improve transparency.

During his visit to the ongoing red-ball training camp at the LCCA Ground, Naqvi met players and coaches and reviewed the training activities. Director High Performance Aqib Javed, former captains Sarfaraz Ahmed and Misbah-ul-Haq, Mike Hesson, and other coaching staff were also present on the occasion.

Talking to the media, he said that new policies are being finalized to reform Pakistan cricket. He added that separate strategies have been developed for T20, ODI, and Test formats, while the selection process is being made up to 85% dependent on data, fitness, and performance metrics.

He emphasized that participation in domestic cricket will be mandatory for central contracts, and players failing to meet required standards will not be awarded contracts. He further stated that five categories are being introduced for central contracts, along with a special category for emerging players.

Mohsin Naqvi announced that match fees for Test, ODI, and T20 formats are being increased, along with efforts to improve domestic players’ remuneration. He said players must pass through fitness, domestic performance, and overall performance benchmarks to advance in their careers.

He also revealed that all players have been called for consultation on Monday, calling them key stakeholders in the reform process. According to him, results of the reforms will become visible within one to two years and will help strengthen Pakistan cricket on a long-term basis.

Regarding Test captaincy, Naqvi said the decision will not be made by him personally but by the relevant team management and selection authorities. On Shadab Khan’s possible captaincy, he said there is no confirmed information at this stage, while Sarfaraz Ahmed remains an important asset for Pakistan cricket and no final decision has been taken about his role.

He expressed hope that the new policies will improve the national team’s performance, adding that past poor policies and personal interests had harmed Pakistan cricket. He stressed that the system is now being run on professional grounds to ensure better results.

Commenting on Azad Kashmir-related issues, he said that although most demands were accepted, protests continued. He stated that out of 28 demands, 26 were approved, yet dissatisfaction remained. He added that price and electricity-related protests were also being raised despite concessions.

The Interior Minister said the government will complete its constitutional term and continue efforts to address public issues. He also noted that fluctuations in global oil prices have created economic pressure worldwide, but Pakistan has managed the situation relatively well.

He claimed that without timely arrangements, petrol prices could have increased by Rs 200 to Rs 250 per litre. He added that Pakistan avoided this pressure through effective international coordination and supply management.

Naqvi also expressed optimism that a potential agreement between the United States and Iran could stabilize global energy markets.