LAHORE: PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi stated on Thursday that the decision regarding Babar Azam’s future as captain will be made by former cricketers and head coach Gary Kirsten, though he did not specify which ex-players would be involved..
“There is, however, no decision taken so far related to Babar Azam,” the top cricket official, who also serves as the country’s interior minister, told reporters in Lahore.
The Green Shirts have been facing severe criticism since their departure from the T20 World Cup, even before the national side entered the Super Eight stage, which was humiliating for a team of Pakistan’s stature.
They had not only suffered a defeat against the underdog United States, who were debuting on the international stage, but also lost a nearly won match against India. Additionally, their victories over the weaker teams Ireland and Canada were hard-fought.
The PCB chief told reporters that no decision should be taken when a person is angry as steps taken in haste are mostly counterproductive.
“I’m only speaking to those former cricketers who are interested in the betterment of Pakistan cricket,” he added.
Last month, the top official had said that a “major surgery” was required due to the national side’s dismal performance.
“People are asking about surgery but one should not take any decision while you are angry. Hasty decisions can prove to be harmful more often than not.”
Naqvi also didn’t seem too impressed with the decision making of the selection committee.
“Whoever made wrong decisions in the selection committee will also be held accountable,” he said.
The PCB chief mentioned that he has summoned head coach Kirsten and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood to discuss the Pakistan team’s performance.
“Kisten has also submitted a detailed report on Pakistan team’s performance in the T20 World Cup,” Naqvi added.
Naqvi acknowledged that he is investigating “grouping and politics” within the Pakistan team. He also emphasized that players’ selection for the national team will be based on their performance in domestic cricket.