Wahab Riaz, selection committee to be removed after T20 World Cup: reports

Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has planned major changes to the national cricket team following their lackluster performance in the T20 World Cup and previous series. 

Wahab Riaz, the selection committee and underperforming players are likely to be replaced in the "Operation Cleanup," according to sources. 

The former left-arm fast bowler and current chief selector, Wahab Riaz, known for his close ties to the Chairman PCB, has faced criticism for his "political" appointment to the selection committee.

Team changes reportedly hinge on performance reviews of skipper Babar Azam, head coach Gary Kirsten, Wahab Riaz, and assistant coach Azhar Mahmood.

Reports from former director, Muhammad Hafeez who previously accused players of prioritising money, will also be considered.

After the World Cup, several players, including Azam Khan, Iftikhar Ahmed, Usman Khan, Mohammad Amir, and Imad Wasim, are unlikely to retain their spots in the team, as some reports suggested.

As per sources, a group of three Pakistan team players, reportedly at the behest of their manager, blackmailed PCB officials to secure substantial raises in their central contracts several months ago.

Notably, the manager of the three players is the same individual, who blackmailed the Chairman PCB, Chief Operating Officer, and other PCB officials in board meetings last year for an increase in remuneration.

Pakistan suffered a humiliating defeat against India in the ongoing T20 World Cup on Sunday, failing to chase down the lowest target of 120 runs and collapsing in the batting department.

Addressing a press conference after the match, Chairman PCB Mohsin Naqvi called for a "major surgery" for the national cricket team, arguing that after a string of disappointing losses by the Green Shirts in the T20 World Cup tournament, it is time to give opportunities to “new” talent.

Cricket fans have slammed Babar Azam's team for their string of disappointing performances, leading to two consecutive defeats in the ongoing T20 World Cup in the United States.