Pakistan’s chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, addressed a press conference in Lahore on Sunday, discussing a variety of issues that the Asian team is working to resolve ahead of the T20 World Cup in the USA and Caribbean.

Rauf Wins Back Playing Contract

Earlier this year, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) terminated the playing contract of Pakistan pacer Haris Rauf following his decision to withdraw from the team’s three-match Test tour of Australia over the Christmas and New Year period. However, Naqvi has acknowledged that the PCB erred in this decision and has reinstated Rauf’s contract with immediate effect. Rauf is currently recovering from a shoulder injury he sustained during the recent Pakistan Super League (PSL).

New Selection Committee Tasked with Choosing 15-Player Squad for T20 World Cup

Naqvi also announced that Pakistan will employ a new seven-person selection committee, comprising four former players, with each member having an equal say in selection matters. The committee includes former players Asad Shafiq, Wahab Riaz, Mohammad Yousuf, and Abdul Razzaq, who will be joined by the new head coach, the captain, and a data analyst.

New Head Coach Now the Priority

Securing a new head coach is one of Pakistan’s top priorities. Naqvi refrained from speculating on potential candidates for this crucial role. He expressed hope that a suitably qualified coach would be found soon to lead the team.

Who Will Captain Pakistan at T20 World Cup?

Naqvi hinted at the possibility of a new captain for the T20 World Cup. Pace spearhead Shaheen Afridi’s position is uncertain despite his short tenure. A decision on Shaheen’s future as skipper will be made following the 10-day training camp that begins this week.

Retirement Reversals Mean More Competition for Spots at T20 World Cup

With Rauf’s contract reinstatement and the recent retirement reversals of experienced players Imad Wasim and Mohammad Amir, there is increased competition for spots in Pakistan’s final 15-player group for the T20 World Cup. Naqvi welcomed Imad’s decision to come out of retirement for the T20 World Cup and expressed his commitment to helping Pakistan select the strongest possible squad for the tournament.