Mohsin Naqvi, the Chairperson of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), convened with the national team players at the Pakistan Military Academy in Kakul to discuss future plans. Among the pressing issues addressed was the recent controversy surrounding the captaincy of the national white-ball side. Babar Azam, the former captain, was reinstated in place of Shaheen as the white-ball captain ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024. Shaheen’s captaincy tenure came to an abrupt end after just one series.
In an attempt to resolve the ensuing tensions, Mohsin Naqvi personally engaged with Shaheen Shah Afridi, who was controversially removed from the captaincy. Naqvi assured that all issues have been resolved and attributed the mishap to the oversight of PCB employees. Shaheen, in turn, expressed his desire to quell any further escalation, emphasizing unity within the team and declaring a clean slate post-discussion.
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During his address to the players, Naqvi emphasized a merit-based decision-making approach and underscored the importance of hard work and fitness in training camps. The decision to appoint Babar Azam as captain was made upon the recommendation of the selection committee.
Naqvi also announced the finalization of deals with two foreign coaches, with official announcements forthcoming. He reiterated the PCB’s commitment to providing facilities while stressing that on-field performance remains paramount. Naqvi assured players that performance would determine team selection and emphasized that the authority for such decisions rests solely with the selection committee, barring any interference.
In summary, the meeting at Kakul marked a pivotal moment in addressing recent controversies and reaffirming the PCB’s commitment to fair and merit-based practices within Pakistan cricket.
