PCB confirms no change in selection committee

ISLAMABAD: In a firm and unequivocal move, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has dispelled all speculation surrounding a potential overhaul of the national selection committee. Putting an end to swirling rumors and lobbying efforts, the Board has confirmed that the current selection panel-intact and unchanged-will continue to steer Pakistan’s cricketing future, having already been in action for over eight months.

The panel, comprising former Test stalwarts Aaqib Javed, Aleem Dar, Asad Shafiq, and Azhar Ali, will maintain their strategic roles. As per the established structure, these selectors will collaborate closely with the head coach and the respective format captain before finalizing squads for upcoming international commitments.

In recent weeks, whispers of a committee reshuffle had gained traction across various cricketing circles, fueled by lobbying from different factions. However, the PCB has firmly rebutted these reports, stating that no changes to the core selection committee were ever under active consideration.

“The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has confirmed that the national selection committee remains intact,” read the official statement issued by the Board’s spokesperson. The only minor adjustment announced involves the data analytics wing. Hassan Cheema, who previously served as the selection committee’s data analyst, has been replaced by Usman Hashmi. The PCB emphasized that the data analyst’s role is purely advisory, with no voting rights during selection discussions.

According to internal sources, Aaqib Javed-who now also serves as the Director of High Performance—was particularly keen on retaining his seat at the selection table. His dual responsibility, especially in nurturing upcoming talent through the High Performance Centre, makes his continued presence on the committee both logical and impactful.

“Since Aaqib will be closely working with emerging players, he wants to ensure their progress and readiness for the international stage is duly recognized,” a PCB insider revealed. “He believes his advocacy for talented youngsters will remain incomplete unless he has a voice in the selection process. This continuity strengthens the bridge between player development and national representation.”

The committee is now gearing up to finalize Pakistan’s squad for the upcoming three-match away series against Bangladesh, tentatively scheduled for next month. With the selection process continuing uninterrupted and the system now better integrated with performance development, the PCB aims to align talent identification with long-term strategy. In times of frequent administrative upheaval, the Board’s decision to prioritize stability and continuity could prove pivotal as Pakistan prepares for a packed international calendar.