PCB Selection Committee defends strategy; empowers coach and captain to finalise Playing XI
PCB Selection Committee defends strategy; empowers coach and captain to finalise Playing XI
By Nawaz Gohar ; The national cricket team’s selection committee held a press conference in Lahore to clarify the team’s World Cup performance, future policies, and player evaluations.
Selection committee member Aaqib Javed acknowledged that the World Cup results did not meet expectations. He explained that while all selection decisions are made through mutual coordination, the final playing XI is primarily decided in consultation with the head coach and the captain.
According to Javed, 21 players were provided to the coach ahead of the Bangladesh series to ensure the selection committee’s input was part of the final squad formation.
He further clarified that the decision to bench Fakhar Zaman and Naseem Shah rested with the coach and captain, while Babar Azam is currently absent from the Bangladesh series and the National T20 Cup due to injury.
The committee noted that while selection committees globally often decide the playing XI, in Pakistan, the coach and captain are empowered to make those final calls. “To me, the captain is more important because he has to lead his team in the fight,” Javed remarked. “We are intentionally giving the coach the right to form the playing XI.”
PCB spokesperson Aamir Mir stated that players have not been fined yet, but a performance-based scrutiny process will be initiated.
Regarding the wicketkeeping slot, Sarfaraz Ahmed mentioned that there are three to four options available, including Haseebullah and Ghazi Ghouri. He noted that Ghazi Ghouri is currently the best option, as Haseebullah’s recent form has been inconsistent.
He also defended Shamil Hussain, stating that his past performances in the top order have been stable and a couple of failures do not justify harsh criticism.
Misbah-ul-Haq emphasized the need to monitor domestic performers and provide options based on the team’s specific requirements. He admitted that while decisions aren’t always perfect, it is essential to learn from them.
Aaqib Javed concluded by stating that the national team remains committed to delivering high-quality cricket to the fans. He added that discussions with the head coach are ongoing to build a stronger, more unified team for the future.
