PCB Retains Aaqib Javed on Selection Committee Amid Interim Coaching Role

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The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has opted to keep Aaqib Javed on the national selection committee. This decision comes despite his new role as interim head coach for both the white and red-ball teams.

Sources within the PCB revealed that Aaqib's coaching position is temporary, allowing him to continue as a selector.

Earlier this year, Gary Kirsten from South Africa and Jason Gillespie from Australia were appointed as head coaches for the white and red-ball teams, respectively. They were also part of the selection committee with significant influence over team choices. However, after disappointing performances in the World T20 Cup and a home series loss to Bangladesh, the PCB restructured the selection committee. Aaqib, Azhar Ali, and Aleem Dar were added, while Kirsten and Gillespie lost some of their powers.

Selection Committee Dynamics

Aaqib's influence as a selector has waned since he took over as red-ball head coach following Gillespie's resignation before the South Africa Test series. Other selectors like Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, Aleem Dar, and Hasan Cheema have gained more authority. "As the other selectors, Azhar Ali, Asad Shafiq, Aleem Dar, Hasan Cheema have been more authoritative and had their say on Shaheen Shah Afridi being sidelined for the two tests in SA after the white ball series," he said.

When Aaqib was named interim head coach for both formats, there was initial uncertainty among selectors about his role. The PCB later clarified that he would remain a national selector while serving as interim coach. This clarification helped ease any confusion regarding his responsibilities within the team structure.

Future Coaching Plans

The PCB plans to appoint permanent coaches for both formats by the end of the Champions Trophy. "The PCB has every intention of appointing one or separate coaches for the white and red ball formats by the time the Champions Trophy is completed," another insider said. However, it seems unlikely that foreign coaches will be considered again soon.

Aaqib's current role as a selector has been limited during recent Test series in South Africa. His diminished influence coincides with other selectors taking charge of key decisions. Despite this shift in dynamics, Aaqib remains part of the selection committee due to his temporary coaching assignment.

The board's decision to retain Aaqib in both roles reflects their strategy to maintain continuity while seeking long-term coaching solutions. This approach aims to balance immediate team needs with future planning as they navigate upcoming challenges in international cricket.