Islamabad:In response to Pakistan’s disappointing campaign in the T20 World Cup, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has initiated significant changes by relieving former Test cricketers Waqar Younis and Abdul Razzaq of their selector duties.
Abdul Razzaq, who had recently been appointed to both the men’s and women’s selection committees, has now been removed from these responsibilities. Formal announcements regarding their dismissals are expected shortly.
Following Pakistan’s premature exit from the World Cup, Waqar Younis faced increasing scrutiny over his role. Earlier this year, he was stripped of the position of Chief Selector and included as one of seven selectors on the committee, which operated without a formal leader but was perceived to be overseen by its Director.
Waqar had openly expressed dissatisfaction with several decisions made by the committee, which included selections he found contentious. There are indications of further changes to the composition and leadership of the selection panel, possibly involving the appointment of a new Chief Selector.
The reduction in the number of committee members suggests that filling the void left by Waqar and Abdul Razzaq may soon be under consideration.
Waqar Younis, known for his close association with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, previously served as Punjab’s Sports Minister and made significant contributions to the PCB. He was initially appointed Chief Selector by Mohsin Naqvi.
Despite accompanying the Pakistan team as Senior Team Manager during the T20 World Cup, it appears Waqar’s role will continue to evolve amid ongoing assessments of accountability for the national team’s performance.
Earlier this year, Mohsin Naqvi had indicated that significant changes were necessary following Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the T20 World Cup. The recent actions reflect a commitment to restructuring and improving the selection process for the national team.
The PCB’s decisions underscore a shift in approach towards player selection, emphasizing a rigorous review process aimed at optimizing team performance.
