Junior Chief Selector Sohail Tanvir's US gig sparks debate

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed Sohail Tanveer to the position of Junior Chief Selector last month. In this capacity, he assumed the crucial responsibility of selecting squads for both the Asia Cup and the Under-19 World Cup. Surprisingly, despite taking on significant duties as a selector, Sohail Tanveer continues to actively participate as a cricketer. Currently, he is showcasing his skills for Premium Paks in the ongoing American Premier League at the Moosa Stadium in Pearland, Texas.

In a recent match against Premium Canadians, Sohail Tanveer demonstrated his dual prowess by contributing 31 runs with the bat and taking 2 wickets while conceding only 15 runs. This remarkable display on the field has drawn attention, particularly in light of the recent controversy surrounding former Senior Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq, who faced criticism for a conflict of interest due to his association with an agent's company, ultimately leading to his resignation.

Similarly, some quarters are now raising questions about Sohail Tanveer's involvement in the American league, expressing concerns about a potential conflict of interest.

Notably, the decision of Muhammad Hafeez, who recently assumed the role of Director of the Pakistani senior cricket team, to bid farewell to franchise cricket has been highlighted in this context. In response to inquiries, a PCB spokesperson clarified that Sohail Tanveer had informed the board in advance about his prior commitment to participate in the United States, emphasizing his pre-existing commitment.

However, the spokesperson did not provide a clear response to the question of whether actively participating in a cricket league as a player constitutes a conflict of interest with the role of a Junior Chief Selector. This ambiguity has added to the ongoing discussions and speculations surrounding the American Premier League, with various other concerns being raised about the league.