PCB chief orders greater opportunities for young players after senior players disappoint

PCB chief orders greater opportunities for young players after senior players disappoint
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Summary The PCB has come under increasing pressure following Pakistan’s poor results and a series of emergency measures during the team’s England tour

LAHORE (Web Desk) - Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has expressed disappointment over the performances of the national team’s senior players and directed the selection committee to give greater opportunities to young and emerging cricketers.

The PCB has come under increasing pressure following Pakistan’s poor results and a series of emergency measures during the team’s England tour.

Naqvi is reportedly considering further changes as the board reviews the performances of senior and experienced players. Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq have already been recalled to Pakistan, while head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have been given leave. Several other players have also been dropped from the squad.

The PCB chairman, who took charge of the board in February 2024, is now pushing for a greater focus on Under-19 and junior cricketers who could form the core of Pakistan’s team in the future.

According to the PCB’s new approach, young players are expected to receive consistent opportunities and greater backing at the international level. The selection committee has also been instructed to maintain transparency and avoid repeatedly giving opportunities to established players who fail to deliver.

The move follows a series of disappointing performances across major tournaments and Pakistan’s recent Test defeats in England. Pakistan suffered an innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test at Leeds before losing the second Test at Lord’s by 194 runs.

The PCB’s latest policy signals a potential shift away from relying heavily on established names and toward rebuilding the national side around younger talent.

Naqvi is also expected to hold further consultations on additional changes in the coming days as the board seeks to improve Pakistan’s performances and develop a stronger pipeline of future players. 

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