There Are People Who Try To Run Cricket Like Football: Ramiz Raja
In the first Test of the series, Pakistan easily defeated Sri Lanka in Galle. The Babar Azam-led team set a new run-chase record at the venue, chasing down a 342-run target with Abdullah Shafique batting well; the Pakistan opener stayed unbeaten on 160 to give the visitors a 1-0 lead in the two-match series. With the victory, Pakistan have moved up to third place on the World Test Championship rankings.
Following the triumph, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Ramiz Raja spoke extensively about it, emphasising the significance of Babar Azam’s captaincy.
In the conversation with Dawn, the PCB chairman also mentioned that many countries try to operate “cricket like football,” adding that teams cannot grow without a good leader.
I Do Not Interfere In Team Selections: Ramiz Raja
“There are people who try to run cricket like football. Many nations are doing it. They will realise what they’ve done when they complete the calendar. They will realise that if your captain isn’t strong, your team can’t progress. I haven’t interfered in the team selections, even though I can do it. It is my right,” Ramiz told Dawn.
“I know the strategies, I know our match-winners. But when you offer accountability and freedom to operate, the players can take the team further up with performances. You can’t run cricket sitting on the sidelines. It won’t be a successful model. We have created a positive environment. Everyone knows I am a phone call away if there are any problems. As an ex-cricketer, I know the issues players might face, so it is important to create that environment,” said the PCB chairman.
In the previous few months, India has had a lot of different captains across all formats. While Rishabh Pant led the T20I squad against South Africa at home in June, Hardik Pandya took over as captain against Ireland after Pant joined the Test team. Rohit returned to the team for the white-ball series against England, but Shikhar Dhawan was selected ODI captain for the forthcoming three-match series against the West Indies, while Rohit rested.
