LAHORE: Former Test cricketer and chief selector Salahuddin Sallu has praised PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi for his efforts to revive Pakistan cricket.
Speaking to The Express Tribune on Monday, Sallu highlighted the importance of Naqvi’s initiative in reversing the downward trend of the national team in the past few years.
“I admire the efforts made by PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi to bring our cricket to the level of international standards. Those who have seen the Pakistan cricket team rule the world cricket in the past or remained associated with Pakistan cricket in any way want to see the revival of that era,” said Sallu.
The former cricketer emphasized the need for Naqvi’s measures following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the recently concluded T20 World Cup held in the USA and the West Indies.
He also praised several key steps taken by Naqvi, including overhauling the selection committee, reducing player strength, improving infrastructure and making participation in domestic cricket compulsory for all players.
“After the recent debacle of the Pakistan team in the T20 World Cup in the USA and the West Indies, such tough measures have become a necessity and I am glad that the PCB Chairman has taken them quickly,” he said.
“Overhauling the selection committee, dismantling the player strength, uplifting infrastructure and making domestic cricket mandatory for all players are excellent steps taken by Mr. Naqvi recently. Very soon, Inshallah, they will bear fruit,” he added.
However, Sallu advised the current PCB chief to get rid of assistant national team coach Azhar Mahmood with a more competent individual.
“Azhar, in my opinion, does not deserve to be the coach of the team as he is not competent for the job and has failed to deliver whenever he has been given the opportunity to serve Pakistan cricket,” he said.
“I remember how PSL franchise Islamabad United sacked Azhar during the PSL 8 season, which is a clear proof of his inability to motivate the players or help them overcome their shortcomings,” he concluded.
