The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has decided to bring former cricketer Waqar Younis into a significant role within the board, according to sources reported by Geo News. Younis will be responsible for managing cricket-related matters, while Naqvi, who also serves as the country's interior minister, will concentrate on administrative tasks, including preparations for the 2025 Champions Trophy, which Pakistan is scheduled to host early next year.
Younis is expected to have decision-making authority over various aspects of both international and domestic cricket, the selection committee, and the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players. This delegation of power is in line with the PCB Constitution 2014, which allows the chairman to assign his responsibilities to others.
Naqvi aims to incorporate the expertise of senior cricketers in critical areas of the sport, as evidenced by a recent meeting he held with over two dozen former and current Pakistani players. He committed to implementing several suggestions from the meeting, focusing on the development of cricket in the country.
One notable proposal came from former Test cricketer Yasir Hameed, suggesting the establishment of cricket academies in Islamabad and Peshawar, along with upgrading the standard of cricket grounds. Naqvi also highlighted the importance of prioritizing four-day cricket, enhancing coach education, and hiring qualified coaches.
Additionally, the PCB plans to form five domestic teams, each with dedicated coaches and mentors, to further strengthen the development and competitiveness of cricket in Pakistan.