The controversy surrounding the captaincy of the Pakistan cricket team persists as the selection committee, tasked by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), remains divided over the decision to replace Shaheen Afridi as the T20 captain, sources say.
According to reports from the TV channel, members of the selection committee have cited various reasons for considering a change in leadership, but they have failed to reach a consensus on a single rationale for Shaheen Afridi’s potential replacement.
Sources further disclosed that the ongoing turmoil has caused displeasure among Afridi and has become a topic of discussion among players attending the army fitness camp in Kakul.
Meanwhile, the selection committee has reportedly engaged in discussions with the current T20 captain regarding the matter.
The backdrop of this situation stems from Babar Azam’s resignation from the captaincy across all formats following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup. Subsequently, Shaheen Afridi was appointed as the T20 captain, while Shan Masood took charge as the Test captain.
However, recent developments, including Lahore Qalandars’ underwhelming performance in the Pakistan Super League’s ninth edition and changes in the PCB hierarchy, have elevated Babar Azam as the frontrunner for the coveted captaincy role.
A meeting chaired by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, attended by key personnel including Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer, selection committee members, and Director of International Cricket Usman Wahla, was held on Thursday. During the meeting, committee members presented their recommendations regarding the national team’s captaincy.
Discussions revolved around potential leadership changes for the upcoming T20 World Cup 2024 and adjustments to the coaching staff. The PCB aims to adopt a novel approach by appointing separate coaches for red-ball and white-ball cricket, with advertisements already published on the board’s website in this regard.
Gary Kirsten is being considered for the role of head coach for white-ball cricket, while Jason Gillespie is expected to lead coaching efforts for the red-ball format. These deliberations signify the PCB’s proactive efforts to enhance the team’s performance and strategic direction in the upcoming cricketing events.
