Newly appointed Managing Director of Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is keen on making organisation a well-respected one in the cricketing community.
While talking in an exclusive interview with Cricket Pakistan, Khan said that he would try to use his experience and skill set in a way which benefits the PCB.
“I like accepting challenges. Although I have not lived in Pakistan much but I’m passionate about serving the country,” said Khan. “I would try to use my experience and skill set in order to ensure that PCB becomes a professional and a well-respected cricketing body.”
Sharing his thoughts on working in a radically different environment — having lived in England for majority of his life — Khan said that adaptability will be important in this regard.
“I’m an experienced leader and know how to deal with different cultures and people,” he said. “In England there are structured professionalised institutions unlike Pakistan which is why I will need to be adaptable and work my way through. But having said that, in order to put things right, we will have to show some patience.”
Speaking about his goals, Khan said: “I will consult all the stakeholders first before making any decision regarding what are my targets. It is important to first assess the system in place and then plan accordingly.”
When asked about the current domestic, Khan stated: “I will have to understand how the domestic cricket is being run and what is the role played by departments and regions. It will be unfair to give my verdict on what’s better before I even know what the ground realties are.”
Khan was also optimistic about bringing international teams to Pakistan by using his credibility in international circles.
“I have credibility amongst international cricketing circles which will aid me in convincing other boards about visiting Pakistan but it will take time,” he said. “If PCB is putting proper security measures into place, the why are teams reluctant about visiting Pakistan. I will have to look into this.”
He added: “Eight PSL matches of season four will take place in Pakistan next year, which will be beneficial in establishing the fact that Pakistan is a safe country for cricket.”
Khan also brushed aside the notion that Chief Operating Office PCB Shubhan Ahmed’s job was in danger due to his appointment as MD.
“There is no such thing as Subhan is an experienced man and has been working with the PCB for a very long time,” he said. “There is no conflict as we both have jobs that complement each other.”
The salary offered to Khan has been the talk of the talk — ever since his appointment — but it is something that does not bother him.
“I don’t concentrate on such stuff because the PCB is paying me according to my value,” he said. “I’m a thick-skinned person and such talk does not bother me.”
Khan also shared his opinion on the massive number of people currently being employed by the PCB.
“There are 900 employees in PCB which is too much I believe. Even global organisations don’t have that many employees,” he said. “I will assess the situation first and then take a decision regarding cutting down this number.”
Although Khan has been officially named as MD by the board but he will start working in February 2019.