The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed a trio of retired cricketing legends as consultant members to Chief Selector Wahab Riaz.
The appointment is a strategic move aimed at bolstering the selection process and revitalizing the cricketing structure in the aftermath of Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Men’s Cricket World Cup 2023.
The newly appointed consultants include the seasoned trio of former Pakistan cricketers: Kamran Akmal, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, and Salman Butt. The decision, effective immediately, seeks to infuse experience, insights, and a wealth of cricketing knowledge into the selection committee, paving the way for a revamped approach to team selection.
Their inaugural task is set to be the upcoming five-match T20 International series against New Zealand, scheduled to kick off on January 12, 2024, following the conclusion of the Australia tour.
The trio’s association with the national team dates back to the glory days of Pakistan’s ICC Men’s T20 World Cup triumph in 2009. Having been part of a successful campaign, their firsthand experience and understanding of the nuances of international cricket are expected to bring valuable perspectives to the selection process.
While Kamran Akmal and Rao Iftikhar Anjum have previously shouldered selection responsibilities, with Akmal even heading the PCB’s Junior Selection Committee earlier this year, Salman Butt’s inclusion marks his first official role with the PCB since facing a ban in 2010 due to his involvement in the spot-fixing scandal.
In an effort to ensure a comprehensive restructuring of the cricketing setup, the announcement follows a series of significant changes within the PCB. After the disappointment of the World Cup, the PCB appointed Mohammad Hafeez as the Team Director, entrusting him with the task of reshaping the team’s strategy and performance.
Wahab Riaz, the newly appointed Chief Selector, is now set to benefit from the vast reservoir of experience provided by the trio of consultants. This collaborative approach aims to bring together the best minds in Pakistani cricket to chart a course for success.
The PCB’s commitment to nurturing talent is evident not only in their senior team appointments but also in the development of grassroots cricket. Kamran Akmal’s dual role as the head of the Junior Selection Committee and chair of the selection committee overseeing trials for the Under-13, Under-16, and Under-19 teams emphasizes the focus on identifying and grooming young talent for the future.
As Pakistan looks ahead to a crucial period in international cricket, with series against New Zealand and other challenging opponents on the horizon, the inclusion of these seasoned consultants underscores the PCB’s determination to leave no stone unturned in their pursuit of excellence. The dynamic blend of experienced heads and fresh perspectives sets the stage for a new era in Pakistan cricket, one where the collective wisdom of cricketing legends guides the next generation to unprecedented heights.
