PCB chief orders greater opportunities for young players after senior players disappoint

Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq have already been recalled to Pakistan, while head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have been given leave. Several other players have also been dropped from the squad.

The PCB chairman, who took charge of the board in February 2024, is now pushing for a greater focus on Under-19 and junior cricketers who could form the core of Pakistan’s team in the future.’s new approach, young players are expected to receive consistent opportunities and greater backing at the international level.

The selection committee has also been instructed to maintain transparency and avoid repeatedly giving opportunities to established players who fail to deliver. The move follows a series of disappointing performances across major tournaments and Pakistan’s recent Test defeats in England.

Pakistan suffered an innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test at Leeds before losing the second Test at Lord’s by 194 runs. The PCB’s latest policy signals a potential shift away from relying heavily on established names and toward rebuilding the national side around younger talent.

Naqvi is also expected to hold further consultations on additional changes in the coming days as the board seeks to improve Pakistan’s performances and develop a stronger pipeline of future players.