Shake-up in cricket leadership: New cabinet reportedly formed amid selection dispute
Special Correspondent
A major reshuffle appears to be underway within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with reports circulating across different platforms suggesting the formation of a new cabinet featuring some of the country’s most iconic cricketing figures. While no official confirmation has yet been issued by the PCB, the reported lineup signals a strategic shift in leadership and coaching philosophy.
According to sources, the Selection Committee will now be headed by a trio of former captains — Sarfaraz Ahmed, Azhar Ali, and Shahid Khan Afridi — bringing a blend of recent playing experience and leadership acumen to the role. Younis Khan, Pakistan’s most prolific Test run-scorer, is reportedly set to take over as Head Coach, while Saqlain Mushtaq returns as Spin Bowling Coach. The fast bowling department is expected to be overseen by a formidable trio: Wasim Akram (on temporary basis particularly when free from his personal assignments), Shoaib Akhtar, and Umar Gul, each bringing a unique legacy and technical insight to the role.
The reported changes come amid growing speculation surrounding a selection controversy involving Aaqib Javed and Head Coach Mike Hesson. Sources indicate that Hesson had pushed for the inclusion of Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and rising talent Irfan Niazi in the Asia Cup squad, while Aaqib Javed opposed the inclusion of Babar and Rizwan, favoring Talat Hussain and Mohammad Haris instead. The disagreement reportedly led to internal tensions, prompting the PCB to consider revoking Aaqib Javed’s selection authority.
In light of these developments, Sarfaraz Ahmed has emerged as a strong candidate for the role of Chief Selector, potentially consolidating the selection process under a more unified leadership. The move, if confirmed, could mark a significant turning point in Pakistan’s cricketing administration, aligning selection decisions more closely with coaching strategies and performance analytics.
While the PCB has yet to make an official announcement, the reported appointments suggest a renewed focus on experience-driven mentorship, technical specialization, and streamlined governance. With the South Africa series and other key international fixtures on the horizon, the cricketing fraternity awaits clarity on the new structure and its implications for team performance and long-term planning. However, The PCB did not give its take on the issue as it neither acknowledged or denied the report, maybe its gauging the public reaction before taking any final decision.
