The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has issued show-cause notices to its selection committee members. This action seeks clarification regarding the inclusion of Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan in the squad for Pakistan’s forthcoming tours of the West Indies and England. The news was reported by Cricbuzz, highlighting the PCB’s scrutiny of player selection ahead of these important matches.
Less than a day earlier, the PCB recalled seven players from the Babar Azam-led squad midway through the series following Pakistan’s 194-run defeat at Lord’s. Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamir Jamal, Muhammad Awais Zafar, Khurram Shahzad and two other players were recalled from the England tour and replaced ahead of the third and final Test, scheduled to begin on September 9 in Birmingham.
The one-page notice issued by PCB Chief Operating officer Sumair Ahmed has sought details regarding the basis and rationale behind selecting the two players, according to the report. The board also made changes to the coaching staff, including the removal of head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed, according to the report. The selectors have been asked to provide details of the process followed while making the selections and have been told to treat the matter as urgent, as per reports.
The selectors have been asked to explain the selection criteria, performance considerations and other factors taken into account during the process. The development comes amid a series of major changes made by the PCB to Pakistan’s setup during its ongoing tour of England. Imam-ul-Haq and Mohammad Rizwan were not among the seven players asked to return home. The development has also come amid reports that Misbah-ul-Haq has resigned from the selection committee, although his resignation has reportedly not been accepted. Pakistan’s recent decisions have put the spotlight firmly on the team’s administration and selection process, with the PCB’s latest move coming shortly after significant changes to the touring squad and coaching setup.
