'Look at what the rankings were before': PCB chief Naqvi hits back at critics
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has defended significant changes to the national Test squad and coaching staff following heavy losses to England, dismissing criticism by highlighting past rankings and improvements in white-ball cricket. Seven players were released and replaced by less experienced ones, while Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke were appointed as new coaches.
Why it matters
These drastic changes reflect the PCB's urgent efforts to improve the national team's performance, potentially altering player careers and the strategic direction of Pakistan cricket amidst public and expert scrutiny.
Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has defended the major changes made to Pakistan’s Test squad during the ongoing England series, saying the decisions were "essential".Pakistan made sweeping changes before the third and final Test against England, scheduled to begin on September 9.The move came after Pakistan lost the first two Tests heavily, with England taking an unassailable 2-0 lead. Pakistan lost the first Test by an innings, while the second ended in a 194-run defeat.Naqvi responds to criticismThe changes have drawn strong criticism from former Pakistan cricketers, fans and analysts. However, Naqvi said he was not concerned by the backlash and maintained that the decisions during the England tour were necessary.He said he was also examining issues beyond the team's poor performances but believed it was not the right time to discuss matters unrelated to cricket.
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