Asad Shafiq to play key role in Pakistan’s team selection in Australia

Shafiq’s responsibilities will include assessing pitch and weather conditions.

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed former cricketer and current selector Asad Shafiq to join the national team in Australia to aid in player selection for the upcoming series. This move comes after PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi approved a proposal for having a selector accompany the team during overseas tours.

Asad Shafiq’s role will include assessing the pitch and weather conditions in Australia to support picking the best-suited players for each match. Working closely with the captain and head coach, Shafiq will provide recommendations and insights to the rest of the selection committee, who will then finalize the playing XI. 

“In essence, the PCB is taking proactive measures to enhance the team's performance in Australia by sending a seasoned cricketer and selector like Asad Shafiq to provide on-ground insights,” an official said.

Shafiq is expected to share detailed feedback on the conditions and players’ performances, which will then help inform future decisions.

The Pakistan team is set to play three ODIs and three T20Is against Australia from November 4 to 18, and Shafiq’s on-ground presence is anticipated to give the team an edge in adapting quickly to the Australian environment. After the tour, he will submit a report to his fellow selectors summarizing his observations and recommendations.