The Real Reason Behind Dropping Babar and Shaheen Revealed
According to sources, the recent benching of star players Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi was part of the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) strategy to dismantle player groupings and foster unity within the team. This move comes in the wake of PCB’s broader initiative to restore the national cricket team’s standing in the sport, a commitment highlighted by Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s call for a necessary “surgery” on the team’s structure.
Leadership and Structural Changes
PCB has reportedly identified Aqib Javed as the key figure to oversee this transformation. Following his recommendations, the selection committee has been reduced from 11 members to 6, aiming to decrease the influence of established players like Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi. Additionally, the practice of appointing selectors without voting rights has been reconsidered and deemed unnecessary.
Authority Granted to Aqib Javed
Aqib Javed has been given the authority to implement significant internal changes, tasked with eliminating factionalism that has hindered the team’s performance. While no official appointment has been made, Javed has received full backing from Naqvi to revitalize the squad and address group dynamics that have plagued the team in recent outings.
His impact has been felt immediately, as evidenced by Pakistan’s first home win in over three years against England in Multan.
Fitness Standards and Team Unity
In another strategic move to promote unity within the team, the previously stringent fitness standards have been temporarily relaxed. Ahead of the first Test, Nauman Ali and Zahid Mahmood both failed to complete a 2-kilometer run in 8 minutes, resulting in their initial dismissal from the squad. Despite being given a second chance after a defeat, neither player met the fitness requirement again.
Recognizing the team’s immediate needs, Aqib Javed persuaded management to exercise temporary leniency in the fitness policy, allowing Nauman back into the playing XI. The left-arm spinner then made a remarkable impact, contributing significantly to his team’s victory.
Conclusion
These adjustments within the PCB reflect a proactive approach to strengthening team dynamics and performance, with a focus on unity and resilience as they aim for success in future competitions.
