Islamabad: Pakistan’s thrilling victory against England in the Multan Test, ending a 44-month wait for a home series win, has been credited to former star bowler Aaqib Javed. But this triumph is not the only significant development. According to PCB sources, Aaqib Javed has become the new mastermind of the Pakistan Cricket Board.Recently inducted into the PCB’s selection committee, alongside Ali Dar, Asad Shafiq, Azhar Ali, and Hasan Cheema, Aaqib Javed is reportedly set to chair the committee. His influential role in team selection and pitch decisions was evident in the Multan Test.PCB sources reveal that Aaqib Javed met with the PCB Chairman before joining the selection committee, outlining his conditions, including ,Autonomous decision-making,Limited input from captain and coach in selection .Chairman PCB, facing pressure due to Pakistan’s consecutive losses, accepted these conditions.Aaqib Javed will also play a pivotal role in appointing the new ODI and T20 captains. Additionally, he has been tasked with Ensuring player fitness,Eliminating grouping and Reducing player power.PCB has faced criticism for pitch selection in recent years, failing to capitalize on home ground advantage. Aaqib Javed’s expertise will now guide pitch decisions.Having criticized Pakistan’s playing style, particularly in Tests, Aaqib Javed advocates for a unique Pakistani approach, utilizing spin-friendly wickets to outsmart opponents. With Chairman PCB granting him a free hand in cricketing matters, Aaqib Javed will now oversee Pakistan cricket as the mastermind.
