Operation clean-up: Amir, Imad, Iftikhar, Azam may be axed; Wahab's post at risk

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is poised to implement substantial changes to the national cricket team following its poor performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 Several players, including Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Iftikhar Ahmed, Azam Khan, and Usman Khan, are expected to face difficulties in retaining their spots in the squad. Additionally, senior manager and selection committee member Wahab Riaz’s position is also under threat as changes to the selection committee are being considered.

Sources indicate that a faction of three players within the team has been exerting undue influence over PCB officials through their manager, pressuring the board for a significant pay raise in the players' central contracts. The anticipated changes are reportedly based on assessments from captain Babar Azam, head coach Gary Kirsten, Senior Manager Riaz, and Assistant Coach Azhar Mahmood. Former director Mohammad Hafeez’s report, which previously accused players of prioritizing financial gains over performance, will also be reviewed.

The overhaul is expected to take place following Pakistan’s performance in the T20 World Cup 2024 and preceding series. This development follows PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s strong remarks expressing disappointment over the team's recent loss to India. Naqvi highlighted the need for significant changes, describing the situation as requiring "major surgery" rather than minor adjustments.

Speaking after the match against India, Naqvi stated that the team’s performance was disappointing and emphasized the necessity for a major overhaul to meet the nation's expectations and elevate the team's standing globally.

The Babar Azam-led team faces a crucial match against Canada next, after consecutive losses to the United States and India. With India and the US leading Group A, Pakistan must win their remaining matches against Canada and Ireland to have any chance of progressing to the Super Eight stage. Their qualification also depends on the US losing their next two matches against India and Ireland, with net run rate (NRR) becoming a decisive factor if all other conditions are met. However, a single additional win by the US would eliminate Pakistan from contention, making the NRR irrelevant.