Wasim Khan steps down as PCB CEO

Khan handed in his resignation, last night, to PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja

PHOTO COURTESY: PCB

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Wasim Khan has stepped down from his role.

Khan, who joined PCB in early 2019 on a three-year contract, handed in his resignation, last night, to PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja. According to sources, Khan was unhappy over his powers being curtailed after the appointment of Raja.

Khan’s tenure was due to expire in February 2022 and talks about his extension had been ongoing over the past few months. However, his future seemed uncertain, after the arrival of Raja, which consequently led to his resignation.

“Pakistan Cricket Board today confirmed Wasim Khan has tendered his resignation as Chief Executive. As is the process, the BoG will meet later today to consider the matter,” the PCB confirmed in a brief statement on Wednesday.

The PCB is also likely to introduce the post of Director Cricket, after Khan’s resignation, inorder to ensure that the powers of CEO are shifted back to the chairman.

BoG accepts Wasim Khan’s resignation

The Board of Governors of the Pakistan Cricket Board today met via videoconference in which they unanimously accepted the resignation of CEO Wasim Khan.

Following the meeting, PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja said: “During his time with the PCB, Wasim Khan provided excellent leadership, particularly following the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic when very little information was available and precise decision-making was required to ensure cricket remained unaffected and continued to be played at the domestic and international levels.

“The PCB owes Wasim Khan a debt of gratitude for his good leadership and we wish him well in his future plans and career endeavours.”

Wasim Khan: “It has been an honor and a privilege to serve the Pakistan Cricket Board and hugely satisfying to see the resumption of Test cricket with Sri Lanka playing Tests in Rawalpindi and Karachi, and the homecoming of the HBL Pakistan Super League during the last two years.

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“When I arrived in 2019, there was a real need to build relationships and restore and enhance the global image and reputation of the PCB and Pakistan cricket. With decisive and strategic decision-making, particularly during the Covid-19 pandemic, we succeeded in earning the goodwill and respect of the global cricketing family, which I am hopeful will lead to increased international cricket being hosted in Pakistan in future.

“With a five-year strategy in place, new domestic structure in its third season and the investment in women’s cricket in an upward direction, I feel it is the right time to move on and reunite with my young family. They have sacrificed a lot so that I could fulfill my dreams of contributing to Pakistan cricket, which will always remain very close to my heart.

“I am grateful to have worked with all our fantastic commercial partners and the passionate people at the PCB. I would also like to thank each and every one of my staff for supporting me as well as the Pakistan men and women players, and the Pakistan cricket fans.

“Lastly, I want to wish PCB Chairman Ramiz Raja the very best during his tenure, I am sure there will be exciting times ahead for Pakistan Cricket under his leadership.”

Twitter Reaction

It’s a shame Wasim Khan is leaving the PCB. He’s very sensible and efficient. Cricket needs more of that
— Elizabeth Ammon (@legsidelizzy) September 29, 2021

This country has never ever valued people who have given their heart and soul to their work. Always taken for granted and that’s exactly how I feel about Wasim Khan’s resignation. He was too good and sane for this management and clearly it isn’t something that is required!
— hania (@hania19x) September 29, 2021

There are a lot of Pakistani cricket journalists who have relentlessly criticised Wasim Khan without ever acknowledging his substantial contributions to Pakistani cricket in an exceptionally challenging time. Please people. Be objective. Don't just lobby.
— Aatif Nawaz (@AatifNawaz) September 29, 2021

Wasim Khan is a mighty fine administrator without fear or favour. In his time with the ECB he made a real difference. I can only hope this is for personal reasons and not work related https://t.co/SgHJcc9f0y
— Ian Pont 🇬🇧 (@Ponty100mph) September 29, 2021

Thank you Wasim Khan for your invaluable contribution for the Pakistan Cricket. Best wishes for your future endeavours. 🌺 pic.twitter.com/mbrDW3Ah9H
— Aalia Rasheed (@aaliaaaliya) September 29, 2021

Ramiz Raja not only destabilised the entire Pakistani cricket structure a month prior to a mega event, he forced Wasim Khan (Pakistan's finest cricket administrator to date) in resigning due to an ego driven intention of hogging the spotlight
— Sadiah. (@Sadiah_Khan) September 29, 2021