PCB's chief medical officer resigns following critical report on Ihsanullah's treatment

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) faced a significant blow as its Chief Medical Officer, Dr Sohail Saleem, tendered his resignation following a scathing independent report regarding the mishandling of fast bowler Ihsanullah’s injury.

The Criticisms Against Dr Sohail Saleem

Dr Saleem bore the brunt of the report’s criticisms, particularly concerning the treatment plan provided to Ihsanullah. The report highlighted various inadequacies in the medical procedures and decisions taken under Dr Saleem’s leadership.

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An independent three-member panel scrutinized the case, concluding that Ihsanullah’s injury was misdiagnosed and inadequately treated. The report highlighted systemic failures within the PCB’s medical department, especially concerning injured fast bowlers.

Ihsanullah’s Injury and Inadequate Treatment

Ihsanullah’s ordeal began with an elbow injury last April, which was not appropriately addressed. The report revealed that he did not receive the necessary medical attention and rehabilitation, significantly delaying his recovery process.

Dr Saleem’s resignation marks the end of his second stint as the PCB’s Chief Medical Officer. Controversies, including the mishandling of injuries and the mismanagement of medical protocols, have marred his tenure.

Dr Saleem’s resignation amidst criticism and scrutiny over the PCB’s medical practices. His departure signals a need for accountability and reform within the organization’s medical department.

“Postoperatively, Mr Ihsanullah was not fully compliant to the rehabilitation protocols as alleged by the PCB officials,” the report said. “He continues to have medial elbow pain along with shoulder dyskinesia. He has significant elbow stiffness for which surgery is not advised currently as per advice of national and international appropriate experts in the specialty shoulder and elbow.

“However, we strongly believe that in view of the talent possessed by Ihsanullah, he be physically assessed on his arrival to Pakistan whereby an appropriate rehabilitation plan be developed in a multidisciplinary fashion, including consideration of hydrodilation and the same be implemented to provide the best chance to the player to live up to his potential again.”

The Spotlight on Ihsanullah’s Injury

Ihsanullah’s injury remained shrouded in secrecy for nearly a year, raising questions about the transparency and efficiency of the PCB’s medical processes. The case gained prominence after revelations by Multan Sultans owner Ali Tareen.

The PCB’s medical department faced severe scrutiny, with allegations of misdiagnosis and negligence. Players and stakeholders questioned the competence and reliability of the medical staff, further undermining the board’s credibility.

Dr Saleem defended his actions, citing Ihsanullah’s non-compliance with the rehabilitation process. However, the report contradicted his claims, emphasizing the inadequacies in the treatment plan and surgical procedures.

Injuries Plaguing Pakistani Fast Bowlers

Ihsanullah’s case is not an isolated incident, with several Pakistani fast bowlers suffering from prolonged injuries. The mishandling of injuries, including those of Shaheen Shah Afridi and Naseem Shah, underscores systemic issues within the PCB’s medical setup.

The independent report was commissioned by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, reflecting the board’s commitment to transparency and accountability. The findings highlight the urgent need for reforms and stringent oversight in the medical department.

Apart from Ihsanullah, the report also addressed the injury-related absences of other players, recommending tailored rehabilitation programs and specialist consultations to ensure their timely recovery and return to cricket.