PCB mulls dissolving selection committee following World Cup debacle

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating significant changes to its cricket management structure, following a disappointing performance in the ICC T20 World Cup. The national team, for the first time in its history, was eliminated in the group stage, suffering an unexpected defeat against the USA and squandering a winning position against India. The dismal showing has sparked a storm of criticism from fans, media, and former players, who have taken aim at both the players and officials.

The PCB, taken aback by the team’s dismal performance, is now considering a series of drastic changes aimed at improving future outcomes. As part of the overhaul, it is likely that at least six players from the current squad will be dropped for the next series. Key players will be rested for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, which is seen as an opportunity for a comprehensive review and reset.

The selection committee, currently comprising nine members, has come under heavy scrutiny. The panel includes Abdul Razzaq, Asad Shafiq, Mohammad Yousuf, Wahab Riaz, captain Babar Azam, head coach Gary Kirsten, Bilal Afzal, Hasan Cheema, and secretary Usman Wahla. Criticism has mounted over the committee's effectiveness, with officials deeming the large committee structure a failure. As a result, the PCB is considering disbanding the current committee and forming a new, smaller selection panel. The current selectors could soon find themselves without a job.

Another significant change under consideration is the captaincy. Babar Azam's position as captain in the white-ball format is under threat, with initial discussions pointing towards Mohammad Rizwan as his potential replacement. No final decision has been reached yet. Shan Masood will continue as the Test captain.

In addition to leadership changes, the PCB plans to revise the criteria for central contracts, tying them more closely to fitness and performance. This shift will prioritize performance over reputation, potentially relegating even star cricketers to lower contract categories if they fail to perform. Conversely, young players who excel will have the opportunity to rise to the top category. The current chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, intends to resist player pressure that previously influenced contract negotiations.

The PCB is also set to review the financial benefits offered to players, capping the number of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for league participation to two per player. This move aims to ensure player availability for national duties and improve the quality of domestic cricket.

Chairman Naqvi, along with his colleagues, will continue to deliberate on these potential changes over the Eid holidays. Several crucial decisions are anticipated post-Eid, including a meeting with Babar Azam to dissect the reasons behind the World Cup failure. With stricter fitness criteria in place, the PCB intends to bar unfit players from rejoining the squad, signaling a shift towards a more disciplined and performance-driven approach to team selection and management.