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Former Pakistan fast bowler Wahab Riaz has been relieved of his duties as Pakistan’s Chief Selector following the team’s premature exit from the T20 World Cup 2024. The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) made the decision in the wake of Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the tournament, where they were unable to progress past the group stage.
Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the global event
Pakistan were knocked out of Group A, which notably included debutant teams USA and Canada. The Pakistani side suffered defeats at the hands of both India and the USA, leading to their early exit from the tournament. PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, addressing the media, indicated that the organization’s cricketing structure was in dire need of a thorough overhaul. The sacking of Riaz, along with fellow selection committee member Abdul Razzaqꦯ,⛎ appears to be the initial step in this restructuring process.
Wahab Riaz’s reaction after being sacked
In response to his dismissal, Riaz took to X (formerly Twitter) to express his feelings. He refrained from indulging in a blame game but made it clear that he had many thoughts about the situation. He highlighted the honor he felt being part of the selection panel, where decisions were made collaboratively and each member’s vote was equally significant. Riaz underscored the shared responsibility within the team, expressing pride in his contributions to the process of selecting the national team.
“My time serving as a member of the selection committee for PCB comes to an end. I just want my people to know that I have served the game I love with faith and sincerity and have given 100 percent for the betterment of Pakistan cricket. It has been an honour to serve as part of the selection panel. To make collaborative decisions as part of the seven-man panel to select the national team was a privilege – everyone’s vote carried equal weight, we made selection decisions as a team & shared the responsibility of that process equally. It was an honour to contribute my part to that,” said Riaz in a statement.
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Riaz extends best wishes for the future
Riaz also expressed his honor in supporting Gary Kirsten and the coaching staff as they developed their vision for the Pakistan cricket team. He conveyed confidence in the team’s strategic plans, believing they will help Pakistan cricket become a dominant force in the future. Riaz extended his gratitude to those who supported him and wished the team success in their ongoing journey.
“Moreover, it was an honour to support Gary Kirsten & the coaching group as they set their vision for this team. I am confident that the team plans the coaches have put together will ensure this team continues to grow into a dominant force as we move forward and I wish them the best of luck on that journey. I am thankful to the people who have prayed for me. I wish nothing but success for the future of the Pakistan cricket team,” Riaz concluded.
