An internal conflict between head coach Aaqib Javed and captain Mohammad Rizwan has costed Pakistan the ICC Champions Trophy.
During the eight-team tournament, struggle of power between the captain and coach became evident, resulting in the team's loss while both parties seemingly emerged victorious in their own right.
According to sources, Mohammad Rizwan appeared frustrated due to a lack of consultation on key decisions.
When he advocated for the inclusion of Khushdil Shah, Aqib Javed went ahead and selected Faheem Ashraf on his own. The selection committee and Mohammad Rizwan were clearly not on the same page.
Before the event, PCB Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, had recommended revisiting the squad twice, but his advice was ignored. The chairman, however, chose not to exercise his authority to make changes unilaterally.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) will review the team's performance after the tournament. A detailed discussion will take place with the team management regarding the mistakes made and areas that need improvement.
Aqib Javed has no intention of resigning on his own. The board had appointed him temporarily, and now, he will no longer hold the position of head coach.
To quell public backlash, PCB may have to take some tough decisions, and the selection committee could be in the firing line.
The PCB is also deeply concerned about Babar Azam's form, as he has not performed well for over a year. Aqib Javed and the other selectors remain firm in their decision that they picked the best available players. However, the facts tell a different story, with clear mistakes being made in areas like opening batsmen, spin bowling, and all-rounders.
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