ISLAMABAD: To manage the cricket-related technical and administrative responsibilities, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has appointed Waqar Younis as the advisor to the PCB chairman on game’s affairs.
Although the official announcement is yet to be made, a PCB official informed ‘The News’ that former Pakistan captain and national team head coach, Waqar Younis, has been appointed as an advisor to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi.
Reason for Appointment
The decision was made due to the growing workload the cricket board will face in the coming year. As Naqvi is expected to take on the role of president of the Asian Cricket Council (ACC) and is also a sitting federal minister, Waqar has been appointed to handle all cricket-related technical challenges.
“Waqar will oversee all technical matters, including coordination with team coaches, the selection committee, and issues related to Pakistan’s interests at the international level. Following the departure of Zakir Khan (Director International), there was a need for a reputable former international cricketer to manage cricket affairs impacting the national team. With the chairman also focusing on ACC responsibilities soon, there was a need to separate administrative and technical duties.
The chairman will focus more on administrative responsibilities, especially with the upcoming Champions Trophy, which Pakistan will host in February 2025,” a source within the Board stated.
Future Role and Responsibilities
It is believed that Waqar may receive a permanent appointment in the future, potentially as Chief Executive Cricket Affairs PCB or Managing Director Cricket Affairs, similar to Robert Key’s position in the ECB.
Waqar had a detailed meeting with the PCB chairman on Monday evening to discuss his new role. “He will act more as a managing director of cricket affairs, having input in every cricketing matter, including domestic affairs crucial to national cricket.
“Waqar will assume office immediately and is expected to start contributing right away. With the cricket season beginning with the arrival of Bangladesh A team in Islamabad on August 7, there is no time to waste.
