For too long, the PCB has become a highly politicised institution, thanks to meddling by successive governments.
LAHORE: A talented leg-spinner Imran Tahir frustrated by the PCB finally left Pakistan to seek a place in an overseas national team, in his case South Africa. Nepotism and corruption have marred the selection of young players in the national team. In the past, we have heard of allegations by cricketers that former selection committee members have even allegedly asked for bribes from players but these were never investigated.
The PCB seems to be hostage to a powerful nexus of former cricketers. For too long, the PCB, because of its financial clout and strength, has become a highly politicised institution, thanks to meddling by successive governments. The then team management that accompanied Salman Butt, Mohammad Asif and Mohammad Amir, who were all convicted of match-fixing, on foreign trips, was as much responsible for gross indiscipline as them but no one was ever punished by the PCB.
A forensic audit of bank accounts held by them or their family will prove their involvement. Those who have been at the helm, especially members of the selection committee, discipline committee, team managers, etc. (with a few exceptions) for the past 15 years should have been held accountable. It is time professional educated cricketers and administrators with management skills, who enjoy the credibility with the ICC, be placed at helm of the PCB, so that team selection is made on merit and discipline enforced.
Ali Malik
Published in The Express Tribune, October 28th, 2013.
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