Mohsin Naqvi, Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), recently clarified the venues for the upcoming Test series against Bangladesh, while also outlining strict new policies regarding player fitness, participation in international leagues, and central contracts. In a candid briefing, Naqvi emphasized the importance of fitness and domestic performance for selection in the national team, and addressed various administrative and selection issues within the PCB.
Venues for Bangladesh Test Series Confirmed
The Test series against Bangladesh will be played across three cities in Pakistan: Multan, Karachi, and Rawalpindi. This announcement ensures that cricket fans across the country will have the opportunity to witness international cricket in their hometowns.
Firm Stance on League Participation
Naqvi took a firm stance on players participating in international leagues. He made it clear that players seeking No Objection Certificates (NOCs) to play in leagues such as Canada’s Global T20 League would face stringent scrutiny. Sources indicate that star players Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi, and Mohammad Rizwan have applied for NOCs for this league.
Central Contracts and Fitness Criteria
Highlighting the PCB’s focus on player fitness, Naqvi stated that central contracts would only be awarded to players who meet the required fitness standards. The PCB plans to conduct thorough fitness tests, including the Yo-Yo test, to ensure players are in peak condition. This move is intended to ensure that only the fittest players represent Pakistan at both domestic and international levels.
Naqvi stressed that domestic performance would be a crucial criterion for national team selection. Players who do not participate in domestic cricket will not be considered for the national team, irrespective of their past performances.
Clarification on Selection and Administrative Changes
Naqvi addressed several administrative and selection issues:
- Selection Committee Accountability: He assured that the selection committee responsible for any erroneous decisions would be held accountable. Changes in the PCB and the selection committee are imminent, though specific details were not disclosed.
- Role of Wahab Riaz: Contrary to some reports, Naqvi clarified that Wahab Riaz has been appointed as a selector, not the chief selector.
- Shaan Masood’s Status: No final decision has been made regarding the removal of Shaan Masood from the team, though discussions are ongoing about how to improve team performance.
Focus on Integrity and Transparency
Naqvi emphasized the need for integrity and transparency within the PCB. He indicated that ex-cricketers, whose livelihoods do not depend on media commentary, would be brought in to help improve the cricketing system. He criticized the tendency of some within the PCB to present misleading information and vowed to make decisions based on ground realities rather than social media pressure.
Addressing the Incident with Haris Rauf
Naqvi also spoke about the recent incident involving fast bowler Haris Rauf. The PCB, with the help of the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), has taken action against individuals who misbehaved with Rauf. Naqvi extended an invitation to those involved to return to Pakistan and assured that they would be welcomed appropriately.
Upcoming ICC Board Meeting
Naqvi will be attending the ICC board meeting on July 20 and 21. He highlighted that his dedication to PCB duties has drawn criticism from other sectors, but he remains committed to putting the PCB on the right track.
Mohsin Naqvi’s statements reflect a determined effort to professionalize and streamline Pakistan cricket. By emphasizing fitness, accountability, and transparency, Naqvi aims to build a stronger and more competitive national team. His decisive measures and candid communication signal a new era for the PCB, one that prioritizes performance and integrity above all else.
