Pakistan’s underwhelming performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 has prompted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to reconsider its selection committee’s structure. A thorough review is underway, focusing on what went wrong and how to streamline the selection committee’s operations.

Recent changes and structure

Less than three months ago, the PCB unveiled its seven-member selection committee, with a notable shift in its operational structure. Wahab Riaz, who had been serving as the chair, was stripped of his title but remained a member. Each member was given an equal vote, and decisions were to be made by majority rule.

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Challenges faced by the committee

The experiment of having a selection committee without a chief has not yielded the desired results. The absence of a head has led to a fragmented approach, with no single individual taking accountability for the decisions made.

Proposed changes to the selection committee

One of the primary changes under consideration is reducing the number of committee members. A smaller, more streamlined committee could potentially make more cohesive and decisive selections.

Reintroducing the role of a chief selector is another key change. This individual would provide clear leadership and accountability, addressing one of the significant issues identified in the current setup.

Wahab Riaz’s future in the committee is uncertain. There is a strong possibility he may be removed entirely, as part of a broader effort to demonstrate that no one is immune from the consequences of poor performance.

Impact on Key Figures

Wahab’s role in the committee has been contentious. If the position of chief selector is reinstated, it is unlikely that Wahab will return to this role. His departure from the committee altogether is a strong possibility.

The decision on Babar Azam’s captaincy is not expected immediately. Despite the emotionally charged atmosphere following Pakistan’s World Cup exit, the PCB is not in a rush to make a call, especially with the next white-ball game not scheduled until November.

Feedback and Review Process

Gary Kirsten, appointed in April, will play a significant role in the review process. Reports suggest he has expressed concerns about the lack of unity within the team, which could influence the changes proposed in the review.

Feedback from players and management will be crucial in shaping the final decisions. The PCB aims to gather comprehensive insights to address the underlying issues effectively.

Timing of Decisions

The review process is ongoing, with significant decisions expected soon. Any changes to the selection committee are likely to be announced before the next series, ensuring the team is better prepared.

If no decision is publicly communicated by that time, indications of any further changes to the national set-up may lie in the revisions made to players’ central contracts when they expire on June 30. Though the PCB and the players agreed to three-year contracts in a landmark decision last year, that only applies to the overarching terms of the contract.