Wahab Riaz Replaces Inzamam-ul-Haq As Pakistan's Chief Selector

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has roped in former fast-bowler Wahab Riaz as the new chief selector of the Pakistan men team’s selection committee. The PCB confirmed the appointed on Friday (November 17).

He has replaced former Pakistan captain Inzamam-ul-Haq as the chief selector. Inzamam resigned from the post after conflict of interest allegations emerged. He also faced criticism for poor selection calls as Pakistan struggled to do well in the ongoing World Cup.

Wahab Riaz had announced his retirement from international cricket in August this year after representing Pakistan in 27 Tests, 91 ODIs and 36 T20Is. The former left-arm pacer picked up 237 wickets and scored 1200 runs across the three formats.

His last appearance for Pakistan came in December 2020. Wahab Riaz’s first assignment as the chief selector will be to pick the Test squad for the upcoming three-match Test series against Australia as well as the five-match T20I series against New Zealand.

Wahab Riaz honoured:

Speaking after his appointment, Wahab Riaz stated that he is honoured to be appointed as the chief selector of Pakistan. He also praised the PCB for roping in former players as he vowed to work for the betterment of Pakistan cricket.

“I am honoured to assume the role of chairperson for the national men’s selection committee and I extend my gratitude to Chairman PCB Management Committee, Mr Zaka Ashraf, for entrusting me with this responsibility. The decision to involve former players in cricketing matters is commendable and I am willing to work for the betterment of Pakistan cricket,” said Wahab Riaz.

Wahab Riaz opens up about his appointment as chief selector and outlines his priorities in this role ?️?

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— Pakistan Cricket (@TheRealPCB) November 17, 2023

“Heading a selection committee is a challenging task. We have a significant Australia tour coming up that is part of the ICC World Test Championship 2023-25 cycle and a T20I series against New Zealand that will allow us to develop a formidable unit leading up to the ICC T20 World Cup in the USA and West Indies in June next year.

“I have a good rapport with the Pakistan Men’s Team Director Mohammad Hafeez and we will be working closely for the success of Pakistan cricket. My primary goal would be to give weightage to the top performers in domestic cricket and announce well-rounded squads equipped with the necessary skillsets. I will always be available to the players for feedback and advice,” he added.

The PCB has taken some big calls following Pakistan’s disastrous show in the ongoing World Cup. The Men in Green once again failed to make it to the semifinals and finished at the fifth spot. They managed just 4 wins in 9 league games.