Mohammad Rizwan Reluctantly Takes Pakistan Captaincy Amid PCB’s Controversial Selection Policy
A source within the PCB stated that Rizwan was assured he would be consulted when finalizing teams but that the ultimate decision-making authority rests with a five-member selection committee. This new policy was implemented following Pakistan's heavy defeat against England in the first Test in Multan, prompting the PCB to revamp the selection process.
Mohammad Rizwan, Pakistan's newly appointed white-ball captain, initially hesitated to accept the role due to the Pakistan Cricket Board's (PCB) controversial new selection policy. After discussions with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi and senior selector Aaqib Javed, Rizwan has agreed to serve in an advisory capacity without voting rights in the selection of touring squads or playing elevens.
The change in captaincy comes after the resignation of head coach Gary Kirsten, who departed on Monday, citing his disagreement with the PCB regarding his role in the selection process. Reports indicate that Kirsten had issues with the board beyond just selection, leading to his exit after a disappointing start to Pakistan's series against England.
A source within the PCB stated that Rizwan was assured he would be consulted when finalizing teams but that the ultimate decision-making authority rests with a five-member selection committee. This new policy was implemented following Pakistan's heavy defeat against England in the first Test in Multan, prompting the PCB to revamp the selection process.
Following the loss, new selectors, including Aaqib, Azhar Ali, and Aleem Dar, were appointed with significant powers to choose teams without input from the captain or head coach. To further facilitate this new regime, national selector Asad Shafiq will accompany the team to Australia for upcoming white-ball matches to assist in selecting the playing eleven after consultations with selectors in Pakistan.
