Kirsten to decide Babar’s fate

LAHORE:

Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Mohsin Raza Naqvi has initiated consultations with former cricketers to shape the team's future direction.

Naqvi emphasized that decisions regarding leadership changes, player selection, and overall improvement strategies will be guided by experienced cricketing personalities known for their dedication to the sport.

Sources reveal that the PCB chief has reached out to cricketing icons such as Inzamam-ul-Haq, Moin Khan, Shoaib Malik, Shahid Afridi, and Younis Khan for their valuable insights.

Additionally, spin maestro Saqlain Mushtaq has been approached to collaborate with veteran Pakistan pacer Waqar Younis, underscoring PCB's commitment to leveraging expertise and experience.

The PCB plans to convene comprehensive discussions next week to address internal team dynamics and strategic imperatives.

Head coach Gary Kirsten and coach Azhar Mahmood are set to gather in Lahore following their assessment of Pakistan's performance in the recent ICC T20 World Cup. The decision to retain Babar Azam as captain or appoint a new one will depend on the guidance from both coaches.

Key agenda items include potential changes in team composition, fitness protocols, and leadership roles, all contingent upon consultations with cricketing luminaries.

In parallel efforts, Naqvi has invited former cricketers, including Shoaib Akhtar, to discuss reforms to bolster domestic cricket structures critical for nurturing future talent.

The board chief emphasized a deliberate and consultative approach to decision-making, aiming for sustainable growth and competitive resurgence in Pakistan cricket.

Consultation begins

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will be consulting with a group of former Test cricketers to discuss improvements to the domestic cricket system.

PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi is set to meet with 30 to 35 international cricket veterans on Monday in Lahore.

The consultations aim to gather valuable feedback and suggestions from these seasoned players to enhance the appeal and effectiveness of the domestic cricket structure.

Sources within the PCB indicate that Chairman Naqvi has been reaching out to these former cricketers, many of whom are celebrated champions, to ensure their involvement and confidence in the board's new initiatives.

Additionally, the discussions will cover details of three upcoming tournaments. Chairman Naqvi has expressed his commitment to incorporating the insights and recommendations of former players to strengthen the cricketing framework in Pakistan.

This move follows Naqvi's recent statements to the media in Lahore, where he emphasized the importance of engaging with former cricketers to seek their advice for the betterment of cricket in the country.

Gillespie’s arrival

The newly appointed head coach of Pakistan's red-ball cricket team, Jason Gillespie, is scheduled to arrive in Pakistan this Sunday.

Upon his arrival, he will join the Shaheens squad's training camp, with plans for a press conference at Karachi's National Bank Stadium on the same day.

A meeting between Gillespie and PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi will also be on the agenda during his visit. Gillespie's imminent arrival comes ahead of the Pakistani Shaheens' upcoming tour to Australia, where they are set to play two four-day matches against Bangladesh A.

The team is slated to depart on July 14, with Gillespie accompanying them for his inaugural assignment.

Jason Gillespie is prepared for his assignment as head coach of Pakistan's red-ball team, as preparations intensify for hosting Bangladesh in a two-match Test series scheduled for August and September.

This series forms part of the ongoing 2023-2025 ICC World Test Championship cycle, offering Pakistan a significant opportunity to bounce back following their recent challenges in the T20 World Cup.