Pakistan Selectors Demand Review of Player Selection Process Amid Tensions
Selectors Express Concerns Over Coaching Authority
The national selectors of Pakistan have voiced their dissatisfaction regarding the extensive power granted to white-ball head coach Mike Hesson in player selections.
During a media conference held in Lahore on Saturday, selectors Aaqib Javed, Misbah ul Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed, and Asad Shafiq emphasized their request for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reassess the selection framework for the national team once they return from Bangladesh.
Aaqib, the lead selector, stated, "After the team's return, we will convene with the coaches and captain to establish a more effective selection system for the national squad."
He noted that prior to Hesson's appointment in May of last year, selectors were actively involved in determining the playing XI for both home and away series.
When asked if Hesson faced pressure to include Babar Azam and other players during the recent T20 World Cup, Aaqib dismissed the notion.
"The selectors provided a list of 21 players to the head coach and captain, who then narrowed it down to 15 players to finalize the playing XI for each match," he explained.
Following Pakistan's exit from the T20 World Cup at the Super 8 stage, reports have surfaced about rising tensions between the selectors and Hesson, with senior selector Aleem Dar resigning shortly after the tournament.
Although he did not comment publicly, sources indicated that he was dissatisfied with the level of control Hesson had over player selections.
Aaqib mentioned that in the past, selectors were involved in choosing the playing XI after narrowing down the roster to 15 or 16 players for any series or tournament.
"The selection process has evolved recently, but we will be reviewing it once the team is back," he added.
He emphasized that while the captain is crucial, followed by the head coach, they should be empowered and supported, but also be open to discussing their future strategies with the selectors.
Aaqib, who has held various roles within the PCB and served as interim head coach for a period in 2024/25, attempted to justify the team's recent performances.
He attributed the ongoing issues to the frequent changes within the Pakistan cricket structure, including players, officials, selectors, and coaches, questioning if such instability is seen in other cricketing nations.
"Whenever we face a loss in a match or series, or perform poorly in a tournament, criticism arises from all sides, leading to calls for changes. This lack of patience and tolerance from critics has not been beneficial for Pakistan cricket," he remarked.