In a significant turn of events, Inzamam-ul-Haq, the Chief Selector of the Pakistan men’s cricket team, declared his decision to step down from his prestigious post. This announcement follows the emergence of media reports suggesting that Haq might possess a vested interest in a player’s management firm that holds registration with the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Notably, several prominent players, including the likes of Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan, were affiliated with this said company.
The revelation in the media concerning this association triggered a wave of uncertainty surrounding the integrity of the team selection process.
During an interview on SAMAA TV’s ‘Zor Ka Jor’ program today, Haq disclosed that he approached the PCB in response to these allegations, urging the board to initiate an official inquiry into the matter.
Subsequently, he received word that a five-member committee had been convened to investigate the allegations. In light of these proceedings, Haq made the personal decision to temporarily relinquish his position until the committee’s inquiry and proceedings concluded. He also expressed his willingness to collaborate with the PCB following the conclusion of the inquiry.
Haq emphasized, “We are cricketers, always available to serve our nation. Given the ongoing inquiry and the nature of my role, it is prudent for me to step aside and allow them to conduct the investigation.” He further conveyed his distress over baseless comments that tarnished his reputation, saying, “I have a 20-year cricketing career, during which I proudly represented Pakistan. Such unverified allegations are deeply painful.”
The former cricketer vehemently denied any involvement with the player’s management company in question, specifically Saya Corporation, adding, “I must clarify that these companies are endorsed by the ICC, and the PCB possesses their comprehensive records.”
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Cricket Board, via its official platform, disclosed that a five-member fact-finding committee had been formed “to investigate allegations of a conflict of interest reported in the media concerning the team selection process.” The statement further conveyed that the committee was tasked with submitting its findings and recommendations to the PCB management in an expeditious manner.
In a subsequent communication, the PCB expressed its appreciation and acknowledgment of Haq’s voluntary decision to step down during the course of the investigation.
Inzamam-ul-Haq assumed the role of Chief Selector on August 7, marking his second tenure in this esteemed position. Previously, he had held the same role in 2016, concluding his three-year term in 2019. Notably, this resignation coincides with the severe criticism faced by the national cricket team due to its lackluster performance in the World Cup, suffering four consecutive defeats against India, Australia, Afghanistan, and South Africa after victorious outings in the initial two matches against the Netherlands and Sri Lanka.
