PCB under fire for unsettled dues to Mohammad Hafeez - Reports
Published - 06 Apr 2024, 03:46 PM | Updated - 23 Aug 2024, 01:10 AM
Former team director Mohammad Hafeez is yet to receive payment from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), despite several months passing since his short stint. The PCB has not fulfilled its financial obligations to Mohammad Hafeez, leading to frustration and dissatisfaction.
Mickey Arthur was removed from his role as Director of Cricket following Pakistan's elimination from the ODI World Cup 2023. Mohammad Hafeez replaced Arthur for the national team. Hafeez also briefly assumed the position of head coach during tours to Australia and New Zealand.
The Pakistan national cricket team faced significant scrutiny after suffering defeats in all three Test matches against Australia under Shan Masood's leadership. Additionally, Shaheen Afridi's team endured a 4-1 loss against New Zealand in the five-match series in away conditions.
Mohammad Hafeez Stepped Down From His Role In February
The PCB's coaching approach shifted with Mohsin Naqvi taking over from Zaka Ashraf, leading to a preference for hiring foreign coaches. The PCB announced its decision to part ways with Hafeez as team director, prematurely ending his four-year term after only two months
“The Pakistan Cricket Board extends heartfelt gratitude to Mohammad Hafeez, Director Pakistan men’s cricket team, for his invaluable contributions,” the PCB issued an official statement.
“Hafeez’s passion for the game has inspired players and his mentorship during the tour of Australia and New Zealand have been of immense importance. The PCB wishes Hafeez good luck and success in his future endeavours,” the statement added.
The PCB's uncertainty over the coaching front remains conspicuous as the New Zealand cricket team's tour to Pakistan approaches. Despite reaching out to several international cricketing figures, the board has faced rejections, leaving the head coach position vacant.
Mohammad Hafeez Awaits Payment from PCB
According to the Cricket Pakistan report, Mohammad Hafeez is yet to receive his contracted payment, including the daily allowance for the tours of Australia and New Zealand.
The packed schedule of PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi has hindered attempts to resolve this issue, leading to Hafeez's unsuccessful attempt to discuss the matter.
Despite his efforts, upon returning to the country, Hafeez was unable to schedule a meeting with Mohsin Naqvi, leading to the decision to terminate his position.
The former captain will transition to an expert analyst role for local TV programs, choosing not to openly discuss his interactions with the Pakistan Cricket Board.
Mohammad Hafeez, one of Pakistan's premier cricketers, scored nearly 13,000 runs and claimed over 250 wickets in 392 matches across formats. The former all-rounder represented the Pakistan team in 55 Tests, 218 ODIs, and 119 T20Is throughout his international career.
Pakistan will host New Zealand in a five-match series starting on April 18 at the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium, followed by two matches at the same venue on April 20 and April 21. The final two games in the series are set to take place in Lahore on April 25 and April 27.
