(Image Source: AP)
[Saba Sports News] Despite Pakistan’s failure to reach the semi-finals of the ICC Cricket World Cup 2023, the team and its experts have been in the spotlight, partly due to peculiar statements made during the tournament. These included claims of ICC providing special balls to Indian bowlers and pitch alterations favoring India.
Adding to these oddities, former Pakistani cricketer and commentator Ramiz Raja claimed that Cristiano Ronaldo’s diet is planned by NASA scientists, a statement that has since gone viral, drawing significant online trolling.
In the wake of these developments and Babar Azam’s resignation, Pakistan cricket has seen major leadership changes. Shan Masood has been appointed as the new Test captain, with Shaheen Afridi taking over the T20I captaincy, though the ODI captaincy remains undecided.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has also undergone managerial shifts. Wahab Riaz has been named the Chief Selector following Inzamam ul Haq’s resignation, and Mohammad Hafeez is now the Team Director of the Pakistan Men’s Cricket Team.
Additionally, Umar Gul and Saeed Ajmal have been appointed as the fast bowling and spin bowling coaches, respectively.
Amidst these transformations, Pakistan is focusing on their upcoming three-match Test series against Australia, starting December 14, with the hope of a strong performance under their restructured management and leadership.