PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi clarifies Fakhar Zaman’s exclusion from Pakistan’s squads and central contracts, citing fitness issues and ongoing show-cause notice.
In a recent media interview in Karachi, Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi explained the reasons for Fakhar Zaman’s absence from Pakistan’s white-ball squads and central contracts for the 2024-25 international season. Naqvi reiterated that the decision to exclude Fakhar was made by the selection committee, with no involvement from his end.
Addressing the continuous rumors about the left-handed batters future, Naqvi stated, “I don’t meddle with any player’s selection. The selection committee will decide if Fakhar Zaman will make the team or not.” He went further: “I never told [the selection committee] to select or drop a certain player.” This declaration is part of the board’s commitment to maintaining transparency in the selection process and reducing administrative influence over cricket decisions.
The Pakistan Cricket Board has revealed the key contracts for the 2017 season, as well as the teams for Pakistan’s travels to Australia and Zimbabwe. Fans and critics, however, pointed out Fakhar Zaman’s apparent absence from both the contract list and the touring squads, generating speculation about the intentions behind the decision.
During a press conference in Lahore, Naqvi reacted to a journalist’s question on Fakhar’s absence, citing a recent social media post by the batter. In his article, Fakhar praised teammate cricketer Babar Azam and criticized the selection committee’s decision to remove him following the first Test against England. This act was constituted a breach of the central contract, and the PCB issued Fakhar a show-cause notice for violating the Code of Conduct.
Naqvi agreed that Fakhar’s social media behavior fueled the debate. However, he underlined that fitness concerns were the most important element in the choice. “There is the tweet issue,” Naqvi said, “but it isn’t as important as his fitness testing. He has two issues: fitness.
According to Naqvi, strict adherence to fitness standards is paramount, and he highlighted that no player is exempt from these requirements. “If a player is dropped by the selection committee, another player starts tweeting against it. This isn’t allowed and will not be permitted. However, the bigger issue is his fitness test,” he stated.
The exclusion of Fakhar Zaman, a seasoned player with significant international experience, has raised questions among fans. Naqvi’s statements underscore the PCB’s commitment to maintaining discipline and fitness within the team, aiming for a culture where personal grievances are managed within organizational protocols rather than aired publicly on social media.
As Fakhar’s situation remains uncertain, the selection committee and PCB will determine his future trajectory based on his response to the show-cause notice and his ability to meet fitness requirements.
Also Read: Babar, Naseem, Shaheen along with 4 others have reached Australia.