Former chief selector urges PCB to get rid of Azhar Mahmood as coach

Former Test cricketer and chief selector Salahuddin Sallu has praised PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his efforts to revitalize Pakistan cricket. 

Speaking to The Express Tribune on Monday, Sallu highlighted the importance of Naqvi's initiatives in reversing the downward trend of the national team over the past few years.

“I admire the efforts being made by PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi to bring our cricket at par with the international standards. Those who have seen the Pakistan cricket team ruling world cricket in the past or have remained attached with Pakistan Cricket in any capacity are keen to see the revival of that era,” Sallu said.

The former cricketer emphasised the necessity of Naqvi's measures following Pakistan's disappointing performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup held in the US and West Indies. 

He also lauded several key steps taken by Naqvi, including revamping the selection committee, reducing player power, improving infrastructure, and making domestic cricket participation mandatory for all players.

“After the recent debacle of the Pakistan team in the T20World Cup in the US and West Indies, such tough measures had become imperative and I am glad that the PCB chairman has taken them promptly,” he said.

“Revamping of the selection committee, dismantling the player-power, uplift of the infrastructure and making the domestic cricket appearances mandatory for all players are all excellent steps taken by Mr Naqvi recently. They will, Inshallah, bear fruit very soon,” he added.

However, Sallu advised the current PCB chief to get rid of the national team's assistant coach Azhar Mahmood, with a more competent individual. 

“Azhar, in my opinion, does not deserve to be the team’s coach as he is not competent for the job and have failed to deliver whenever given the opportunity to serve Pakistan Cricket,” he said.

“I remember how PSL franchise Islamabad United sacked Azhar during the PSL 8 season which is a clear indication of his inability to motivate the players or help them overcome their shortcomings,” he concluded.