Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set up a five-member fact-finding committee
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set up a five-member fact-finding committee to investigate allegations regarding conflicts of interest in the team selection process. The committee aims to thoroughly examine the claims that have been reported in the media. Its findings and recommendations will be submitted to the PCB Management promptly. This development comes at a time when the Pakistan men’s cricket team is facing several controversies mere months ahead of the 2023 World Cup.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has set up a five-member fact-finding committee to investigate allegations in respect of conflict of interest reported in the media pertaining to the team selection process.
— PCB Media (@TheRealPCBMedia) October 30, 2023
The committee will submit its report and any recommendations to the PCB…
Leading up to the Asia Cup 2023, many cricket enthusiasts believed that Pakistan had a strong chance of winning the tournament and performing well in the World Cup. However, their performance was far from satisfactory, as they not only failed to qualify for the Asia Cup final but also finished last in the Super Fours points table. Despite boasting a formidable bowling attack and an in-form batting lineup, the team ended up below an injury-hit Sri Lanka and a struggling Bangladesh team.
3 Big Ongoing Controversies for Pakistan men’s team ahead of World cup 2023
Following Pakistan’s exit from the Asia Cup, a series of controversies have emerged, casting a shadow over the team. These controversies range from a blame game within the squad to threats of resignation from the chief selector. Here, we delve into the three significant controversies affecting the Pakistan men’s team.
#1 Pakistan chief selector Inzamam-ul-Haq threatened to resign before the 2023 World Cup. It has been reported that Inzamam-ul-Haq, the chief selector, expressed his desire to have full authority over the issuance of NOCs (No Objection Certificates) for players participating in other T20 leagues. Unfortunately, the PCB did not comply with his request, which led Inzamam to contemplate resigning from his position. The PCB even considered replacing him with Misbah-ul-Haq and Nadeem Khan as potential successors. Eventually, a compromise was reached between Inzamam-ul-Haq and the PCB, resolving the conflict. This marks the second time within a short span that Inzamam-ul-Haq has threatened to step down from his role. Last month, he demanded a lengthy contract, and the PCB granted him a three-year deal with a monthly salary exceeding 20 lakh PKR.
#2 A clash between Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi has become a cause for concern ahead of the 2023 World Cup. Pakistani fans have grown accustomed to the exciting battles between Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi in the Pakistan Super League (PSL). However, it is disheartening for fans to hear reports of a heated exchange between the two players in the national team’s dressing room. After Pakistan’s loss to Sri Lanka in a crucial match, captain Babar Azam expressed his disappointment and criticized senior players for their inadequate performance. In response, Shaheen Afridi suggested that Babar should focus on the positives and avoid blaming his teammates. This exchange escalated into a heated argument until Mohammad Rizwan and the coaches intervened to diffuse the situation. Such disputes can have a negative impact on team dynamics as the 2023 World Cup approaches.
#3 Babar Azam’s silence following the Asia Cup press conference raises concerns. After the team’s elimination from the Asia Cup 2023, Captain Babar Azam addressed the media. However, sources indicate that he immediately headed straight to the team bus and, upon reaching the team hotel, avoided speaking with anyone. The team management will undoubtedly be eager to reconcile any issues between Babar Azam and his teammates before the 2023 World Cup. Pakistan’s next match is against New Zealand on September 29 in the World Cup warm-up round, making it crucial to foster a positive team atmosphere.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Pakistan men’s cricket team finds itself embroiled in several controversies as the 2023 World Cup draws nearer. The formation of the fact-finding committee by the PCB demonstrates their commitment to investigating alleged conflicts of interest in the team selection process. It is imperative for the team to address these controversies swiftly, ensuring that unity and focus are restored. The road to the World Cup may be challenging, but with proper communication and resolution, Pakistan can regain its potential and perform well on the global stage once again.