PCB appoints former pacer Wahab Riaz as new chief selector of Pakistan men's cricket team

Pakistan cricket team has undergone several radical changes in the aftermath of a disappointing 2023 ODI World Cup campaign in India. The most notable development was captain Babar Azam stepping down as captain from all formats. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is in the process of rebuilding the team and as a major step, they have made changes in the leadership roles. 

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On Friday, November 17, the PCB appointed former Pakistan pacer Wahab Riaz as the chief selector of the Pakistan men's cricket team. He will fill in the spot left vacant after Inzamam-ul-Haq stepped down from the position following conflict of interest allegations during the ongoing World Cup. 

Riaz's first assignment will be to select the squad for the three-match Test series against Australia from December 14 to January 7, the board stated in a brief press release. It will be followed by Pakistan's tour of New Zealand for a five-match T20I series from 12 to 21 January. The 38-year-old expressed his commitment to taking up the role and thanked the PCB staff for giving him such an opportunity.

"I am honoured to assume the role of chairperson for the national men's selection committee and I extend my gratitude to Chairman PCB Management Committee, Mr Zaka Ashraf, for entrusting me with this responsibility. The decision to involve former players in cricketing matters is commendable and I am willing to work for the betterment of Pakistan cricket," Wahab said in a video released by the PCB. 

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I have a good rapport with Team Director Mohammad Hafeez: Riaz 

Earlier, former Pakistan captain and all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez was appointed as Team Director. Hafeez has been tasked with rebuilding the team after Pakistan's early exit from the 2023 World Cup. This is the first time that the board has appointed a director to the national team. Notably, the 43-year-old will be also the head coach in Australia and New Zealand. Riaz, meanwhile, said he has a good rapport with Hafeez and shared his enthusiasm to work with him for the success of Pakistan cricket. 

“I have a good rapport with the Pakistan Men’s Team Director Mohammad Hafeez and we will be working closely for the success of Pakistan cricket. My primary goal would be to give weightage to the top performers in domestic cricket and announce well-rounded squads equipped with the necessary skillsets. I will always be available to the players for feedback and advice."