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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating revisions to its selection committee in the wake of the Babar Azam-led team’s premature departure from the 2024 T20 World Cup. Reports indicate that Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq have been relieved of their duties on the committee following a thorough assessment of the tournament.
Pakistan’s campaign in the T20 World Cup 2024, held across the West Indies and the USA, was marked by underperformance. Their unexpected defeat to the USA in Dallas was followed by a loss to India in New York, resulting in their elimination before the Super 8s stage.
In response to the Men in Green’s disappointing group stage exit from the ICC tournament, the PCB has pledged substantial reforms within the national cricket setup. The selection of the squad has been identified as a primary factor contributing to their lackluster showing in this prestigious competition.
Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq Sacked By PCB – Report
ESPNcricinfo’s recent report revealed that the Pakistan Cricket Board has decided to remove Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from their positions as selectors for the national cricket team. Although the PCB has not officially confirmed this move yet, sources indicate that an announcement is imminent later this week.
Wahab Riaz, who took on the role of chief selector last year but was replaced earlier this year, remained part of a selection committee where each member, including the PCB chairman, held equal voting authority. Abdul Razzaq, on the other hand, served on both the men’s and women’s national teams’ selection panels.
In response to these changes, the PCB is expected to streamline the selection committee by reducing its size and reintroducing the position of a chief selector. Mohammad Yousuf and Asad Shafiq are slated to continue their roles as selectors. Notably, there are no immediate plans to replace Razzaq and Wahab, as maintaining the committee’s optimal size appears to be a priority.
Mohsin Naqvi Serving As The Incumbent Chief Selector
Mohsin Naqvi currently holds the position of chief selector at the Pakistan Cricket Board. Notably, Wahab Riaz assumed the interim role of Punjab sports minister during Naqvi’s tenure as chief minister. Riaz also briefly served as the senior men’s team manager during the 2024 T20 World Cup.
The frequent turnover within the PCB’s selection committee underscores ongoing instability, with six different individuals holding the chief selector role in the past four years. Wahab Riaz, Haroon Rashid, Shahid Afridi, Inzamam-ul-Haq, Mohammad Wasim, and Misbah-ul-Haq have all briefly occupied this pivotal position during this turbulent period.
Looking ahead, Pakistan’s upcoming cricket series against Bangladesh will feature two Tests, marking their first engagements in the 2024–25 home international season. The series opener is scheduled to take place in Rawalpindi from August 21-25, followed by the second Test in Karachi from August 30 to September 3.
