Shahid Afridi, the former captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team, recently expressed his bewilderment over the removal of Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) selection committee. Afridi’s comments have sparked a conversation about the PCB’s recent decisions and their impact on the national team.
Disappointment in T20 World Cup Performance
The removal of Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq follows Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup 2024. Sources indicate that the PCB management had lost confidence in the duo, as their opinions had not been considered for some time. This lack of trust led to their eventual removal from the selection committee.
Afridi Breaks His Silence
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Afridi, who is currently competing in the World Championship of Legends 2024 in England, voiced his confusion regarding the PCB’s latest move. Afridi emphasized that the selection committee consists of multiple members, not just Riaz and Abdul Razzaq.
“I Don’t Understand This Kind of ‘Surgery'”
Afridi, 47, highlighted his confusion by stating, “I just found out that they sidelined Abdul Razzaq and Wahab Riaz. I don’t understand this kind of ‘surgery’.” Afridi further mentioned that any necessary “surgery” should be comprehensive and final, allowing ample time for new members to develop their skills.
Babar Azam’s Captaincy Under Scrutiny
While discussing Babar Azam, Pakistan’s current T20 captain, Afridi pointed out that Azam has been given numerous opportunities to prove his leadership abilities. Despite participating in several international tournaments, Afridi expressed his dissatisfaction with Azam’s captaincy, suggesting that the 29-year-old has not met expectations.
Significant Influence on Team Selection
According to sources, the influence of Riaz, 39, and Abdul Razzaq, 44, was significant in the selection of the T20 World Cup squad. They reportedly supported players who underperformed, leading to questions about their judgment and decision-making.
Current Selection Committee Members
Despite the removal of Riaz and Abdul Razzaq, the selection committee still includes notable figures such as Mohammad Yousuf, Asad Shafiq, and Bilal Afzal. The seven-member panel also comprises the captain and head coach, ensuring a diverse range of opinions and expertise.
Conclusion
Shahid Afridi’s comments have brought attention to the recent changes within the PCB’s selection committee. The removal of Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq has raised questions about the decision-making process and its implications for the national team’s future. As the PCB navigates these changes, the cricket community will be watching closely to see how these decisions impact the team’s performance.
About The Author
