New York: Preparations for ‘Operation Purge’ have begun in the national cricket team.
Defeats by USA and India dealt a heavy blow to Pakistan’s World Cup campaign. Even if the team beats Canada, their place in the Super 8 depends on Ireland’s win and the results of the other teams. Recently, factionalism has emerged in the national cricket team, forcing the PCB to take drastic action.
Reports indicate that cliques have been formed based on friendship and special interests, with some players consistently supporting their peers despite poor performances.
Captain Mohsin Naqvi consulted management staff, colleagues and some former cricketers on the issue. There is an agreement to exclude players involved in politics from the team. Non-performers will not be retained in the group under any circumstances. Action will be taken after the Green Shirt’s World Cup campaign ends.
Initial reports suggest that at least six players will be sent home. Some reports suggest that some players are playing just because they are in the captain’s good books despite failing.
Sources said that after reports of differences between the groups surfaced, efforts were made to resolve the issue differently. Questions have been raised about Babar Azam’s captaincy. His adherence to the team is not strong and many of his teammates are angry with him. Doubts were raised about his decision-making abilities. Some star cricketers are also managed by the same company.
Zaka Ashraf, the former chairman of the steering committee, tried to limit the role of agents, but he himself had to resign. Some social media trends and some statements suggest that it is all part of a special campaign.
The PCB chairman intends to present some information to the public in a press conference in a few days, but it is not clear how far he will go. Some circles advised him to speak in general, without naming specific players.
Sources indicated that aggregation of PCBs has also increased significantly and steps are being taken to address the issue. Big changes are expected in several departments soon. The captain also wants to consult with former cricketers to plan the team to do better in future.
Meanwhile, the latest performance from PCB officials has not been accepted by the national team. The players complained that they could at least wait for the World Cup to end. The green shirts have their final group game against Ireland in Lauderhill on Sunday, but a decision is expected to be made on whether to continue the event.
