Changes in Pakistan Cricket Board’s Selection Committee

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has implemented notable adjustments to its national selection committee, resulting in the departure of former Test players Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq from their respective positions.

Sources indicate that Sarfaraz Ahmed, who captained the team to victory in the 2017 ICC Champions Trophy, has been incorporated into the selection panel as a replacement. Furthermore, cricket analyst Sikandar Bakht, recognized for his critical views on PCB policies, has been discreetly added to the committee.

According to sources, Sikandar Bakht was called to Lahore on Thursday for a selection committee meeting, whereas Sarfaraz Ahmed, currently located in England, participated through a virtual conference.

The meeting was attended by head coach Mike Hesson, captain Salman Ali Agha, and selectors Aaqib Javed and Aleem Dar. During the session, the Pakistan squads were finalized for the upcoming T20I series against Bangladesh next month and the T20Is against the West Indies in the USA.

Despite the PCB’s lack of official announcement regarding the appointments or designated roles of Sarfaraz Ahmed and Sikandar Bakht, both have participated in two consecutive selection committee meetings.

Meanwhile, Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq have been excluded from these discussions.

Sources reveal that Asad Shafiq is presently concentrating on his duties at the Karachi High Performance Centre and with the Women’s Selection Committee, while Azhar Ali has been assigned to programs focused on youth development.

Sarfaraz Ahmed’s insight into cricket and the respect he holds among players have prompted the PCB to explore various roles for him.

Since retiring from active cricket, Sarfaraz has shown interest in collaborating closely with the board, which is eager to utilize his expertise.

Sikandar Bakht, who is returning to the PCB fold for the first time since his tenure as a team analyst in 2003, is regarded as a reliable associate of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.

Upon contact, PCB officials verified that additional information would be disclosed upon the reopening of offices, with Chairman Naqvi acting as the primary spokesperson.