Wahab Riaz, previously appointed as the Sports Minister for Punjab (Lahore), has now assumed the role of chief selector for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). This appointment follows the resignation of Inzamam-ul-Haq as chief selector after the disappointing performance in the 2023 ODI World Cup and allegations of conflict of interest.

Despite announcing his international retirement, the left-arm pacer expressed his commitment to continue participating in franchise cricket. With 27 Tests, 91 ODIs, and 36 T20Is for Pakistan, Riaz’s most recent national team appearance was in December 2020.

In a statement, Wahab Riaz conveyed his gratitude to Chairman PCB Management Committee, Mr Zaka Ashraf, for entrusting him with the responsibility of chairing the national men’s selection committee.

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Riaz’s initial task will be to assemble a team for Pakistan’s upcoming three-match Test series against Australia, followed by a five-match T20I series against New Zealand. This announcement coincides with Mohammad Hafeez’s appointment as the team’s new director.

Wahab Riaz commended the decision to involve former players in cricketing matters and expressed his dedication to contribute to the improvement of Pakistan cricket. Emphasizing the importance of the upcoming Australia tour and the T20I series against New Zealand, he outlined his goal of selecting well-rounded squads based on the top performers in domestic cricket.

Collaborating closely with Pakistan Men’s Team Director Mohammad Hafeez, Riaz highlighted their joint efforts for the success of Pakistan cricket. He pledged to prioritize feedback and advice for players, with the overarching goal of developing a formidable unit leading up to the ICC T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies in June next year.