Pakistan cricket could see a significant administrative shake up after a disappointing campaign in England, with former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar emerging as a possible addition to the Pakistan Cricket Board’s cricket think tank. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi is understood to be considering a wider overhaul that goes beyond changes within the board itself. The proposed plans include bringing in foreign coaches and consultants for Pakistan’s national teams, along with a permanent long term head coach for the women’s side.
The result added to concerns surrounding the performances of Pakistan’s teams across different levels. The difficulties have extended beyond the men’s senior side, with the women’s and age group teams also facing setbacks. Akhtar’s potential involvement appears to have developed alongside an improvement in his relationship with Naqvi.
The PCB chairman offered support to Akhtar following a personal family bereavement, helping improve relations between the two, according to a source cited by PTI. The source said:
‘Shoaib is in line to get a major posting but obviously when he met with the Chairman he had his own set of ideas and conditions through which he believes Pakistan cricket can be taken forward.’
The PCB’s plans extend beyond Akhtar. Foreign coaches and consultants are being considered for the national teams as part of the proposed restructuring. The board is also seeking a permanent long term head coach for the women’s team. Naqvi’s stated objective is to improve performances across Pakistan’s cricketing teams.
The chairman expects ‘better results from the national men’s, women’s, shaheens and junior teams.’, according to the source.
