Shahid Afridi appointed PCB’s interim chief selector; Abdul Razzaq also included in panel

After a gut-wrenching defeat at the hands of England in the three-match Test series, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has taken many big decisions including the sacking of its chairman Ramiz Raja. Najam Sethi took over the reins from Raja and now he has taken another big decision. Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), under Sethi, has appointed former Pakistan cricketer Shahid Afridi as the board’s interim Chief Selector. Abdul Razzaq and Rao Iftikhar Anjum have also been added to the panel. 

Notably, PCB sacked Ramiz Raja after Pakistan lost 0-3 to England at home. The Babar Azam-led team also failed to win the T20 World Cup after reaching the final. Pakistan were also defeated by Sri Lanka in the Asia Cup 2022 Final. 

“The PCB Management Committee has appointed former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi as the interim Chair of the Men’s National Selection Committee for the home series against New Zealand. Other members of the panel are: Abdul Razzaq and Rao Iftikhar Anjum, while Haroon Rashid (member of Management Committee) will be the Convener,” said Pakistan cricket board in a release. 

Meanwhile, Najam Sethi expressed his feelings at the appointment of Afridi as the Chief Selector. The PCB Chief said that he is confident about Afridi’s abilities and hopes that he will select the most deserving players. 

“I welcome the interim Men’s National Selection Committee and have no doubts that despite limited time, they will make brave and bold decisions that will help us produce a strong and competitive side in the series against New Zealand.

“Shahid Afridi has been an attacking cricketer who played all his cricket with no fear. He has nearly 20 years of cricket experience, has featured in all formats with significant success and more importantly, has always backed and supported young talent. So, in our collective opinion, there is no better person than him to understand the rigours, demands and challenges of the modern-day game.

“I remain confident that through his insight and knowledge of the game, he will help Pakistan select the best and most deserving players, and contribute in the side’s success in the upcoming series.”