Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi is set to implement radical changes, including the removal of Aaqib Javed and Wahab Riaz, following the Test team’s 0-3 whitewash in England and a decline to ninth in the ICC rankings. The overhaul aims to address ongoing turmoil and poor performance, with Naqvi preparing to consult his aides and governing board before final decisions.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi is preparing for a major shake-up, signaling a break from the instability that has plagued the national team. The moves come after Pakistan’s 0-3 Test series loss in England, which pushed the team to ninth in the ICC rankings, and a series of controversial coaching and selection changes that have drawn criticism. Key figures, including Aaqib Javed and Wahab Riaz, are expected to face the axe, according to multiple reports.
Radical Changes in Pakistan Cricket Leadership
Naqvi has reportedly recognized the need for drastic action to stabilize Pakistan cricket, which has endured a losing streak and frequent upheavals. An internal source told PTI that Even Mohsin Naqvi has now realised that some radical measures are required to end the losing streak and abrupt happenings in Pakistan cricket. So these changes are now on the cards.
The PCB is considering a major overhaul of the national selection committee and coaching staff, with Aaqib Javed, the senior selector, among those likely to be removed.
Javed, who orchestrated the controversial Test squad changes after Pakistan’s loss to England, has faced scrutiny for his role in the turmoil. The decision to release seven players and two coaches following the Lord’s Test has drawn sharp criticism, with some accusing Javed of creating instability. The PCB’s internal source added that Naqvi will soon hold a high-level meeting with his aides and the governing board to finalize the changes.
Aaqib Javed’s Potential Exit
The former Test cricketer, who has been at the center of recent selections, is expected to be replaced as senior selector. His tenure has been marked by frequent coaching changes and captaincy shifts, which critics argue have undermined the team’s consistency. PTI reported that the PCB’s decision to make coaching changes during the England tour was partly driven by white-ball coach Mike Hesson’s interest in taking over the all-format role.
Hesson, who is currently the white-ball coach, has reportedly expressed interest in leading the Test team but has set conditions. He is seeking a confirmed timeframe and assurances of autonomy in decision-making. This has added complexity to the PCB’s plans, as Naqvi navigates both internal reforms and external coaching negotiations.
Wahab Riaz and Women’s Team Overhaul
The shake-up is not limited to the men’s team. Wahab Riaz, who has served as a mentor with the women’s team, is also expected to be released after the Asian Games in Japan. The PCB has been in talks with foreign coaches to fill the vacancy, reflecting a push for external expertise.
The PCB’s decision to replace him underscores the pressure to address performance issues across all levels. The women’s team’s coaching setup is also under review, with the PCB seeking to stabilize an area that has seen frequent turnover.
Mike Hesson’s Role and Conditions
Mike Hesson’s potential transition from white-ball to Test coach has been a key factor in the PCB’s decisions. The New Zealand coach has indicated willingness to take charge of the red-ball team but has emphasized the need for clarity and autonomy. PTI reported that Hesson wants sufficient time to get the system in motion
and assurances of freedom from interference. This has delayed the finalization of the coaching appointments, as Naqvi balances internal and external priorities.
The PCB’s negotiations with Hesson highlight the challenges of aligning long-term stability with immediate results. While the board seeks to address the Test team’s struggles, it must also ensure that Hesson’s appointment does not disrupt the white-ball setup. The outcome of these discussions will shape the future of Pakistan cricket’s coaching structure.
Next Steps for the PCB
Naqvi’s upcoming meeting with his aides and the governing board will determine the final shape of the reforms. The PCB’s internal source emphasized that Naqvi will soon hold a high-level meeting with his aides and also take the governing board members into confidence before final decisions are made on the changes.
This process will likely involve consultations with key stakeholders, including players and selectors.
The changes could have significant implications for Pakistan cricket’s trajectory. By addressing internal turmoil and seeking external expertise, the PCB aims to restore stability and improve performance. However, the success of these reforms will depend on how effectively they are implemented and whether they address the root causes of the team’s struggles.