(Image source: X.com)
[Saba Sports News] The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) revealed on Friday that three former cricketers, Kamran Akmal, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, and Salman Butt, have been appointed as consultant members to the recently-appointed chief selector of the men’s national team Wahab Riaz.
With an impressive cricketing background, Akmal boasts a remarkable record, having represented Pakistan in 53 Tests, 157 ODIs and 58 T20Is. Anjum and Butt also bring invaluable experience, having showcased their talents on the international stage. Anjum participated in one Test, 62 ODIs and two T20Is, while Butt contributed significantly in 33 Fests, 78 ODIs and 24 T20Is for Pakistan.
Their immediate responsibility involves contributing their expertise to shape the team for the upcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand scheduled for January. Their collaboration with Wahab Riaz aims to craft a formidable squad capable of delivering exceptional performances on the field.
It’s noteworthy that both Akmal and Anjum have previously served as selectors, adding an interesting dynamic to their return. The anticipation lies in the fresh ideas they bring to the table, shaping the future of Pakistan’s national cricket team.
However, Butt’s name was withdrawn from the consultancy panel on Saturday. The former Pakistan batter faced a ban from cricket in 2010 following allegations of spot-fixing during the Lord’s Test. His subsequent five-year ban and jail sentence brought an abrupt end to his playing career.
A fascinating aspect is that the two newly-appointed consultants were part of the iconic Pakistan World Cup squad that clinched the ICC T20I World Cup in 2009. The PCB highlighted that when not actively involved in team selection, the duo will also engage in conducting skills camps, contributing further to nurturing and developing cricketing talent within Pakistan.