The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has made significant changes to its selection committee and T20 squad. According to reports, former Test players Azhar Ali and Asad Shafiq have been removed from the selection panel, with 2017 Champions Trophy-winning captain Sarfaraz Ahmed and cricket analyst Sikandar Bakht added in their place.

 

Reports suggest that Sarfaraz joined the recent selection meeting via video call from England, while Sikandar Bakht was present in Lahore. Others in attendance included head coach Mike Hesson, T20I captain Salman Ali Agha, and selectors Aaqib Javed and Aleem Dar.

 

The new committee has made several bold decisions. Three major players, Shaheen Shah Afridi, Babar Azam, and Mohammad Rizwan, have been left out of the upcoming T20 squad. Pakistan is expected to play a three-match T20I series against Bangladesh in July, followed by matches against the West Indies in the USA.

 

Despite Shaheen’s strong performance in the recent PSL, reports suggest that concerns about his attitude were a key factor in his exclusion. Babar and Rizwan have not featured in a T20I since the 2024 series against South Africa.

 

Sarfaraz and Sikandar have now attended two consecutive selection meetings. While no official announcement has been made regarding their exact roles, reports indicate that Sarfaraz is likely to assume greater responsibilities owing to his experience and strong rapport with players. Since retiring from international cricket, he has expressed interest in working closely with the PCB.

 

Meanwhile, Azhar Ali is now involved in youth development programmes, and Asad Shafiq is focusing on the Karachi High-Performance Centre and the women’s selection committee.

 

Sikandar Bakht returns to the PCB setup after a long hiatus. He last served as a team analyst in 2003. Known for his outspoken views on cricket, he is reportedly a trusted figure within the current setup.

 

The PCB is expected to make official announcements regarding these changes soon. For now, the focus remains on building a refreshed T20 side for the upcoming international fixtures.