PCB Confirms Selection Committee Stability Amid Analyst Change

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently faced conflicting reports about changes to its national cricket selection committee. While some sources initially denied any major alterations, stating that four of the five selectors, including Azhar Ali, Aaqib Javed, Aleem Dar, and Asad Shafiq, would remain, newer reports confirm significant changes. Former captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and cricket analyst Sikandar Bakht have reportedly replaced Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq on the panel, indicating a strategic shift toward youth development and a more aggressive cricketing style. Alongside this reshuffle, the PCB's new selection committee has made bold decisions for upcoming T20 series by excluding key players like Shaheen Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan, signaling a move to nurture young talent and build a modern, competitive squad. Sarfaraz Ahmed is expected to take on a prominent role given his experience and player rapport, while Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq have transitioned to developmental roles within the PCB. The PCB aims to finalize squads soon for upcoming series against Bangladesh and the West Indies, emphasizing consultation with coaches and captains to align selections with strategic goals.