KARACHI:

Former Test cricketer and chief selector Salahuddin Sallu on Monday lauded the efforts of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi to revamp Pakistan Cricket.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, Sallu said the measures taken by Naqvi are essential at this stage to revive the fortunes of Pakistan cricket which has been experiencing a downward spiral for the past few years.

“I admire the efforts being made by PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi to bring our cricket at par with the international standards. Those who have seen the Pakistan cricket team ruling world cricket in the past or have remained attached with Pakistan Cricket in any capacity are keen to see the revival of that era,” said Sallu, a world record-holding ten-time chief selector of his time.

“After the recent debacle of the Pakistan team in the T20World Cup in the US and West Indies, such tough measures had become imperative and I am glad that the PCB chairman has taken them promptly.”

“Revamping of the selection committee, dismantling the player-power, uplift of the infrastructure and making the domestic cricket appearances mandatory for all players are all excellent steps taken by Mr Naqvi recently. They will Inshallah bear fruit very soon,” said Sallu.

Sallu, however, advised the PCB chief to get rid of team coach Azhar Mahmood and appoint some other competent person to fulfill the duties.

“Azhar, in my opinion, does not deserve to be the team’s coach as he is not competent for the job and have failed to deliver whenever given the opportunity to serve Pakistan Cricket,” he said.

“I remember how PSL franchise Islamabad United sacked Azhar during the PSL 8 season which is a clear indication of his inability to motivate the players or help them overcome their shortcomings.”