‘Ye toh PSL ke draft mein bhi hai’ – Fans react as Wahab Riaz gets appointed as Chief Selector of Pakistan
Pakistan Cricket has undergone major changes following an underwhelming ODI World Cup 2023
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Nov 17, 2023 8:18 pm
In a strategic move to rejuvenate the structure of Pakistan’s cricketing hierarchy, former fast bowler Wahab Riaz has been appointed as the new chief selector for the senior men’s team. The vacancy arose when Inzamam-ul-Haq resigned on October 30, amid questions surrounding a potential conflict of interest, leaving the position open during the ongoing ODI World Cup where Pakistan was still vying for a spot in the semi-finals.
Wahab, who announced his retirement from international cricket in August of this year, steps into his new role ahead of the challenging three-match Test series in Australiascheduled for December-January. Following the Test series, the team will face a five-match T20I series in New Zealand in January. While Wahab hasn’t formally retired from franchise cricket, his Pakistan Super League (PSL) team, Peshawar Zalmi, expressed gratitude for his “exceptional services” in a tweet, acknowledging his integral role in the team over the past eight years.
Wahab Riaz, Babar Azam, Haris Rauf, Shaheen Afridi (Source: Twitter)
New beginnings: Wahab Riaz takes the helm as chief selector for Pakistan!
The appointment of Wahab Riaz as chief selector comes amidst a broader restructuring in the aftermath of Pakistan’s underwhelming ODI World Cup campaign. Inzamam-ul-Haq’s departure marked the need for a fresh perspective in the selection panel, and Wahab’s experience and understanding of the game make him a valuable addition.
In a statement released by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), Wahab expressed his commitment to the improvement of Pakistan cricket. He stated, “The [PCB’s] decision to involve former players in cricketing matters is commendable, and I am willing to work for the betterment of Pakistan cricket.” Emphasizing the challenges that come with heading a selection committee, Wahab highlighted the significant Australia tour ahead and the T20I series against New Zealand as crucial opportunities to develop a formidable team leading up to the T20 World Cup in the USAand West Indies in June next year.
Wahab Riaz also stressed his intention to prioritize top performers in domestic cricket when forming squads, ensuring a well-rounded selection equipped with the necessary skillsets. He expressed his readiness to work closely with Pakistan Men’s Team Director Mohammad Hafeez, citing a good rapport between them and a shared commitment to the success of Pakistan cricket. Wahab concluded by affirming his availability to players for feedback and advice, underlining his dedication to fostering a collaborative and successful cricketing environment for the national team.
Wahab Riaz plays under Babar Azam captaincy in PSL. * Wahab to Babar: "Tu meri jagah PSL mein sambhal, main teri jagah national team mein dekhlunga" BC, ye log conflict of interest ko seriously bhi nahi lete
"Wahab Riaz can bat, bowl, do TV programs as a cricket expert, handle the sports ministry, and now he's the Chief Selector. Don't be surprised if he becomes the head coach of his franchise, @PeshawarZalmi 🔥🔥#WahabRiazpic.twitter.com/Dvlwn5S44s
