Pakistan cricket could be heading for another major overhaul, with Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi reportedly preparing sweeping changes following the national Test team’s disastrous tour of England.
Pakistan were beaten 3-0 in the Test series in England, a result that pushed them down to ninth in the ICC rankings. The poor run has already led to significant changes within the team, including the removal of two coaches and a major reshuffle of the playing squad.
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Now, according to a PTI report, the PCB is considering changes to the national selection committee. Former Pakistan Test cricketer Aaqib Javed could be among those removed from his position as senior selector as the board looks to address the continued instability surrounding the national side.
A PCB source indicated that Naqvi has recognised the need for drastic action following Pakistan’s prolonged run of poor results.
“Even Mohsin Naqvi has now realised that some radical measures are required to end the losing streak and abrupt happenings in Pakistan cricket. So these changes are now on the cards,” the source said.
Javed has been at the centre of several controversial decisions involving Pakistan’s Test squad. He was involved in major changes made earlier this month after Pakistan suffered a defeat against England at Lord’s.
Seven players were sent home following that defeat, while head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were also released from their positions.
Javed has previously faced criticism over frequent changes to Pakistan’s coaching staff and captaincy. His possible removal would therefore mark another major development in the PCB’s efforts to restructure the national team setup.
The proposed changes could extend beyond the men’s selection committee. Former Pakistan bowler Wahab Riaz, who is currently working as a mentor with the women’s team, is also expected to be released from his duties after the Asian Games campaign in Japan later this month.
The coaching structure could also undergo further changes. Pakistan’s decision to alter its coaching setup during the England tour has been linked to the growing interest of Mike Hesson in taking charge of the men’s team across all formats.
Hesson is currently Pakistan’s white-ball coach, but sources have indicated that the New Zealander is interested in taking up the all-format role. However, he is understood to have certain conditions before agreeing to oversee the red-ball setup.
Hesson reportedly wants sufficient time to get the system in motion and has sought a confirmed timeframe for the assignment. He has also asked for assurances that he will have freedom from interference in his decision-making.
Meanwhile, the PCB is also in discussions with several foreign coaches for the vacant head coach position with the women’s team following the Asian Games.
Naqvi is expected to hold a high-level meeting with his aides and consult members of the PCB governing board before making final decisions on the proposed changes.
The coming days could therefore bring another significant reshuffle in Pakistan cricket, with the board potentially changing key figures across selection, coaching and team management in an attempt to end the recent instability and losing streak.
