Former Pakistan chief selector Mohammad Wasim criticised the PCB’s handling of Babar Azam, saying the batter was first dropped and later recalled on the basis of his Pakistan Super League (PSL) performance.
Speaking on ARY News’ programme 11th Hour, Mohammad Wasim said Pakistan cricket would continue to face difficulties as long as short-term decisions were made instead of addressing the team’s underlying problems by the PCB.
“The approach of dropping Babar Azam and recalling him is an example of short-term decision-making by the PCB.”
He questioned why players who were later being sent back had initially been selected for overseas tours, saying the fundamental issues affecting Pakistan cricket were not being addressed.
Wasim said there was no shortage of talent in the Pakistan team that required basic coaching, but the real problem was decision-making. He expressed concern over the lack of positive results from coaching arrangements, training camps and player-selection policies.
Commenting on the issue of injuries, Wasim said a lack of confidence was also visible among some players. He recalled that Imam-ul-Haq had suffered an injury around the time of the Multan Test, but the matter only came to light at the last minute.
He said Imam needed to become mentally stronger when dealing with injuries and physical setbacks.
On former captain Sarfraz Ahmed’s appointment as Test coach, Wasim said he had opposed the decision at the time. However, he added that the manner in which Sarfraz was subsequently removed was also inappropriate.
Mohammad Wasim said Pakistan cricket needed consistent, long-term planning rather than repeatedly changing decisions and policies.
