Waqar Younis Set to Become Pakistan Cricket's Chief Cricket Officer

Waqar Younis Set to Become Pakistan Cricket’s Chief Cricket Officer

Waqar Younis, the legendary fast bowler, is poised to assume the newly created position of Chief Cricket Officer (CCO) at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This development marks a significant shift in the PCB’s leadership structure, as Younis will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Pakistani cricket.

Younis’ appointment comes after he joined the PCB as an advisor to the chairman of cricket affairs on a temporary basis. However, sources close to the matter have revealed that he has now been offered a paid position as the CCO. This position is modeled after the role held by Rob Key in the English Cricket Board.

As the CCO, Younis will be responsible for overseeing all cricket-related matters, including international and domestic schedules, player development, and the selection of national teams. He will also be involved in the negotiation of central contracts with players.

Younis’ extensive experience in international cricket, both as a player and a coach, makes him an ideal candidate for this role. He has represented Pakistan in 87 Tests and 262 One-Day Internationals, taking over 700 wickets across both formats. He has also served as the bowling coach and head coach of the Pakistan team on multiple occasions.

Younis’ appointment is expected to bring stability and direction to the PCB, which has faced criticism in recent years for its inconsistent performances and lack of long-term planning. His knowledge of the game and his ability to inspire players will be invaluable assets to the board.

The PCB’s Board of Governors is expected to approve Younis’ appointment in the coming weeks. Once he assumes his new role, he will begin working on a comprehensive plan to revitalize Pakistani cricket and restore its former glory.

PCB Adopts Silence on India's Champions Trophy Participation

PCB Adopts Silence on India’s Champions Trophy Participation

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has adopted a policy of silence regarding India’s participation in the ICC Champions Trophy next year. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has instructed his office and colleagues to refrain from issuing any statements on the matter.

This approach aims to avoid unnecessary controversy and allow the ICC to handle the situation independently. The PCB has already submitted the draft schedule and all necessary documents, including security plans for each team, to the ICC.

Naqvi’s strategy is to continue preparations for the tournament assuming India will attend. The PCB’s main focus is currently on renovating the three match venues—Karachi, Lahore, and Rawalpindi—ahead of an ICC venue inspection team’s visit in September.

Sources within the PCB indicate that Naqvi is coordinating with the government to finalize a strategy in case India refuses to send its team. However, he is keeping any reactions to India’s decision behind closed doors.

Naqvi, who is also the federal minister of interior, has emphasized the importance of avoiding unnecessary controversies on mainstream or social media platforms about the India-Pakistan cricket issue.

The PCB’s silence on the matter is a departure from its previous stance. In the past, the board has been vocal in its criticism of India’s refusal to play bilateral series in Pakistan. However, Naqvi’s approach suggests a more pragmatic and diplomatic approach.

The ICC Champions Trophy is scheduled to be held in Pakistan from September 14 to October 15, 2023. India’s participation is crucial for the tournament’s success, both financially and in terms of fan interest.

The PCB’s decision to remain silent on the matter is a sign of its commitment to hosting a successful tournament and its willingness to work with the ICC to resolve any outstanding issues.

Waqar Younis Set to Become Pakistan Cricket's Cricketing Supremo

Waqar Younis Set to Become Pakistan Cricket’s Cricketing Supremo

Waqar Younis, the legendary Pakistani fast bowler, is poised to return to the helm of Pakistan cricket in a pivotal role as the board’s cricketing supremo. This appointment marks a significant shift in the PCB’s leadership structure, with Younis assuming responsibility for all cricketing matters, including selection, high performance, and pathways.

The appointment comes at a crucial time for Pakistan cricket, as the team embarks on a packed schedule in the coming months. They face Bangladesh in a two-Test series in August, followed by a three-Test tour of England in October. The year ends with a two-Test series in South Africa over Christmas and New Year’s.

In addition to these international commitments, Pakistan will host a triangular ODI series with South Africa and New Zealand, the 2025 Champions Trophy, and an eight-match white-ball series in New Zealand in March 2025. The domestic schedule has also been expanded, with three new tournaments added to the calendar.

Younis’s appointment is expected to bring stability and expertise to the PCB’s cricketing operations. He has previously served as bowling or assistant coach across three stints with the Pakistan side, as well as head coach twice. His last assignment with the team was as bowling coach under Misbah-ul-Haq’s coaching regime after the 2019 World Cup.

However, this new role will be the first time Younis takes on such a broad remit. He will be tasked with balancing the demands of Pakistan’s international schedule with the increasing popularity of T20 leagues worldwide, which has led to a growing demand for Pakistani players.

The PCB has been without a chief executive officer since Wasim Khan left the board under Ramiz Raja’s tenure as PCB chairman. Raja folded the executive role into the chairmanship, but PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is keen to appoint a former cricketer to take over cricketing matters, leaving him to focus on the running of the board.

Younis’s appointment is expected to be finalized soon, although a few issues still need to be resolved. The exact nature of his role may change once the appointment is made permanent, with the possibility of a title similar to that of Robert Key, managing director at the ECB.

Pakistan Cricket in Crisis: Afridi Slams PCB's Constant Changes

Pakistan Cricket in Crisis: Afridi Slams PCB’s Constant Changes

Pakistan’s dismal performance at the T20 World Cup 2024 has sent shockwaves through the cricketing world. The Babar Azam-led side crashed out of the competition in the group stages, suffering humiliating defeats against the United States and India. Despite victories against Canada and Ireland, it was too little too late for Pakistan.

The result has sparked a massive backlash from fans and prompted significant changes within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq have been sacked as selectors, while Babar Azam’s future as captain remains uncertain.

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticized the PCB’s constant changes, arguing that they have negatively impacted the team’s performance. Afridi emphasized the need for stability and consistency, stating that teams require time to adapt to new systems.

“When you change or bring in any new structure, you must give the system time. Every year, a new chairman comes, and a new system is introduced. Things don’t work this way,” Afridi told Sports24.

Afridi called for a collaborative approach, involving senior board members and players, to develop a long-term plan for the team. He believes that frequent changes create confusion and hinder progress.

Meanwhile, the PCB has denied No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi to participate in the Global T20 League. The board cited Pakistan’s busy international schedule as the reason for the decision.

The PCB’s decision has raised concerns about the availability of key players for the upcoming season of the Pakistan Super League (PSL). The PSL is a major domestic tournament that attracts top players from around the world.

Pakistan’s poor performance at the T20 World Cup and the subsequent changes within the PCB have raised questions about the team’s future. The PCB must address the concerns raised by Afridi and other former players to ensure that Pakistan regains its status as a cricketing powerhouse.

PCB Faces Dilemma over 2025 Champions Trophy Amid BCCI's Refusal to Travel

PCB Faces Dilemma over 2025 Champions Trophy Amid BCCI’s Refusal to Travel

The fate of the 2025 Champions Trophy, scheduled to be hosted by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), remains uncertain due to the Board of Control for Cricket in India’s (BCCI) reluctance to travel to Pakistan. The PCB has submitted its plans for the tournament to the International Cricket Council (ICC), but the possibility of a hybrid model remains.

Former Pakistan cricketer Basit Ali has criticized the BCCI and its secretary, Jay Shah, for their stance. Ali believes that other cricket boards will follow the BCCI’s lead when the issue is discussed at the ICC meeting. He has urged the PCB to adopt a tit-for-tat approach and refuse to play matches outside of Pakistan if India refuses to travel for the Champions Trophy.

The PCB has reportedly left the decision in the hands of the ICC. The budget for the tournament has been approved, but the schedule and format have not yet been finalized. The PCB has proposed hosting all of India’s matches in Lahore, including a semi-final and the final if India qualifies.

The BCCI’s refusal to travel to Pakistan stems from security concerns. India has not played a bilateral series in Pakistan since 2007 due to tensions between the two countries. The PCB has assured the ICC that it will provide adequate security for the tournament, but the BCCI remains unconvinced.

The ICC is expected to make a decision on the venue and format of the Champions Trophy in the coming months. If the tournament is held in a hybrid model, it would be the first time that the Champions Trophy has been played in multiple countries.

PCB Leaves Champions Trophy Schedule to ICC, Hopes for India's Participation

PCB Leaves Champions Trophy Schedule to ICC, Hopes for India’s Participation

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has entrusted the International Cricket Council (ICC) with the task of persuading the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) to send its team to Pakistan for the Champions Trophy, scheduled for early 2024. The ICC recently approved the event’s budget during meetings in Colombo, but the schedule and format remain undecided.

The PCB has submitted a draft schedule and format for the tournament, along with a budget, to the ICC. The board has proposed hosting all of India’s matches in Lahore, including a potential semi-final and the final. The PCB has also provided the ICC with details on tax modalities, venue selections, and government clearance for the Indian team to visit Pakistan.

The PCB initially expressed interest in hosting the Champions Trophy in 2021, and the ICC awarded hosting rights in 2022. The final documentation for the host agreement was submitted during Ramiz Raja’s tenure as PCB Chairman.

Although PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi did not have formal meetings with BCCI secretary Jay Shah or other BCCI officials at the ICC meetings, interactions were described as cordial. The PCB has now delegated the responsibility of finalizing and announcing the tournament schedule to the ICC.

The ICC must also obtain confirmation from the BCCI regarding the Indian team’s travel to Pakistan. The BCCI has historically maintained that playing cricket in Pakistan is a decision made by the Indian government. During the 2023 ODI Asia Cup, India played its games in Sri Lanka based on a ‘Hybrid Model.’

The PCB has fulfilled its obligations as hosts by submitting the draft schedule and budget, as well as providing detailed documentation to the ICC. The ICC now has the responsibility to finalize the event logistics and secure India’s participation.

Afghanistan Pledges Participation in ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan

Afghanistan Pledges Participation in ICC Champions Trophy in Pakistan

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has received a major boost in its bid to host the ICC Champions Trophy in 2025, with Afghanistan pledging its participation in the tournament. This assurance was given by Mirwais Ashraf, the president of the Afghanistan Cricket Board (ACB), and Naseeb Khan, the CEO, during the ICC Annual Board Meeting in Colombo.

The PCB has been working tirelessly to secure the hosting rights for the Champions Trophy, which will be the first major ICC event to be held in Pakistan since the 1996 World Cup. However, there were concerns that some countries might follow India’s lead if the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) decided not to send its team to Pakistan.

Khalid Mehmood, a former PCB chairman, had recently stated that if India didn’t send its team to Pakistan, one could expect teams like Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan to follow suit and insist on shifting the tournament to an alternative location.

However, the ACB officials’ assurances to PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi have allayed those fears. Afghanistan’s participation in the Champions Trophy is a significant development, as it shows that the country is willing to support Pakistan’s efforts to host the tournament.

The Champions Trophy is scheduled to take place in Pakistan during February and March 2025. It will be the first time that the tournament has been held in Pakistan since 2008.

Pakistan Players to Receive USD 100,000 Each for T20 World Cup Victory

Pakistan Players to Receive USD 100,000 Each for T20 World Cup Victory

Pakistan’s cricket board has announced a hefty incentive for its T20 World Cup squad, promising each player a staggering USD 100,000 if they emerge victorious in the tournament scheduled for June in the Americas. The announcement was made by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi during a meeting with the team before their departure for the away T20 series against Ireland and England.

Naqvi emphasized that the prize money was secondary to the ultimate goal of lifting the trophy, expressing his confidence in the team’s ability to bring glory to Pakistan. “Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi announced to give 100,000 dollars prize to every player for winning the T20 World Cup,” the PCB posted on social media.

The PCB chief urged the players to focus solely on their performance and teamwork, assuring them that victory would follow. He also expressed his belief in the unity of the team and the exceptional abilities of fast-bowler Shaheen Shah Afridi. “The country has a lot of expectations from you. You have to fulfill them,” Naqvi told the players.

During his visit, Naqvi also recognized the achievements of wicketkeeper-batter Mohamad Rizwan and pacer Naseem Shah, presenting them with special shirts for reaching milestones of 3,000 T20 runs and 100 T20 wickets, respectively.

The announcement of the prize money has generated excitement among the players and fans alike, raising expectations for Pakistan’s performance in the upcoming T20 World Cup. The team will be looking to build on their recent successes, including their victory in the Asia Cup 2022, as they aim to bring home the coveted trophy.

Gary Kirsten's Virtual Coaching Sparks Controversy in Pakistan

Gary Kirsten’s Virtual Coaching Sparks Controversy in Pakistan

Gary Kirsten, the former South African cricketer and renowned coach, has been appointed as the head coach of Pakistan’s white-ball team. However, his virtual interaction with the players has sparked controversy among fans.

Kirsten, who is currently in India as the batting coach of Gujarat Titans in the Indian Premier League (IPL), conducted a virtual meeting with the Pakistani players. This move has drawn criticism from fans, who question the effectiveness of online coaching.

“How do players learn from a coach through a laptop screen?” one fan asked. “Like Mickey Arthur, he will also do online coaching. PCB, is this cricket or is it a joke?” another fan commented.

Despite the criticism, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has defended Kirsten’s virtual coaching. A PCB official stated that if Gujarat Titans fail to qualify for the IPL playoffs, Kirsten will be available from the start of the T20 series against England.

Until Kirsten joins the team, Azhar Mahmood, the former Test all-rounder, will lead Pakistan on its tour of Ireland and England. Mahmood, who has been appointed as the assistant coach to Kirsten, will act as head coach in the interim.

The PCB has also appointed Muhammad Yousuf, the former Test batsman, as the batting coach, and Saeed Ajmal, the legendary spinner, as the spin bowling coach.

Kirsten’s appointment has been met with mixed reactions. Some fans believe that his experience and expertise will benefit the Pakistani team, while others are skeptical about the effectiveness of virtual coaching.

PCB Proposes Radical Changes to PSL, Including IPL Clash

PCB Proposes Radical Changes to PSL, Including IPL Clash

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is considering a series of significant changes to the Pakistan Super League (PSL) that could reshape the tournament’s landscape. These proposals, if approved, would aim to enhance the PSL’s competitiveness and global appeal.

One of the most notable changes being considered is shifting the league’s schedule from its current December-February window to April-May. This move would align the PSL with the Indian Premier League (IPL), the world’s most popular T20 league. The PCB believes that this would allow the PSL to “co-exist” with the IPL rather than “compete” with it.

Another proposed change is the introduction of a marquee player rule. This would allow franchises to sign a single player outside the salary cap, potentially offering contracts worth over USD300,000. This move is aimed at attracting top international talent to the PSL and increasing its global visibility.

The PCB is also considering moving the PSL playoffs to a neutral venue. The United Kingdom is being considered as a potential host, as it would provide a central location for fans from both Pakistan and other countries. This would create a more festive atmosphere and enhance the overall experience for spectators.

These proposals are currently in the discussion stage, with a final decision expected to be made at a governing council meeting between the PCB and franchises in May. The PCB is eager to move the PSL away from its current crowded window, which clashes with several other T20 leagues and the international cricket calendar.

The proposed changes are part of the PCB’s broader strategy to elevate the PSL’s status and make it a more competitive and attractive tournament. By aligning with the IPL, attracting top international talent, and creating a more fan-friendly experience, the PCB hopes to establish the PSL as a global cricketing powerhouse.

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