After senior players disappoint, the PCB chief demands more opportunities for younger players.

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has shown his unhappiness over the performance of veteran players of the national side and urged the selection committee to provide more opportunity to young and rising cricketers.

The PCB is under increased pressure after Pakistan’s poor results and a series of emergency measures on the team’s tour of England.

More changes are allegedly on the cards for Naqvi as the board reviews the performance of older and experienced players. Pakistan have already been joined by Wicketkeeper Mohammad Rizwan and opener Imam-ul-Haq, while head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul have been given leave. Several additional players have been left out of the team.

The PCB chairman who took over the board in February 2024 is now advocating for more focus on Under-19 and junior players who might be the backbone of Pakistan’s side in the future.

The new approach from the PCB is expected to provide young players more regular chances and more support at the international level. The selection committee has also been told to be transparent and not to keep offering chances to seasoned players who do not perform.

It comes after a string of poor results in the big competitions and recent Test defeats in England for Pakistan. The first Test in Leeds was won by Pakistan by an innings and 103 runs, and the second Test at Lord’s by 194 runs.

The PCB’s recent policy suggests a possible shift away from renowned names, and rebuilding the national side around younger players.

Naqvi is also scheduled to have more meetings on other adjustments in the coming days as the board looks to improve Pakistan’s performances and build a stronger pipeline of future players.