PCB mulls dismissing Mickey Arthur after World Cup setback: reports

ISLAMABAD: Following a lackluster performance by the Green Shirts in the ICC World Cup 2023, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is contemplating major changes in leadership, with the potential removal of team director Mickey Arthur, head coach Grant Bradburn, and batting coach Andrew Puttick.

Sources indicate that the PCB is inclined towards appointing local coaches to helm the national side.

Zaka Ashraf, Chairman of the PCB Management Committee, is scheduled to meet with captain Babar Azam and other members of the team management in the coming days. This meeting precedes Ashraf’s departure for India on November 17, where he will participate in an ICC meeting.

The reports indicate that during the discussions, Ashraf is expected to scrutinise Pakistan’s performance in both the Asia Cup and the recently concluded World Cup.

The 1992 champions fell short of making the semi-finals, concluding their campaign with a fifth defeat in nine matches against holders England.

Amidst the disappointing performance, there are speculations about Babar Azam contemplating stepping down from the captaincy, particularly in white-ball cricket.

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The 29-year-old has sought advice on his future, consulting with former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja and other close confidants.

As per the media reports, Azam, during training at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens, sought guidance from Ramiz Raja. The decision on his captaincy future is expected to be influenced by further consultations upon his return to Pakistan, with Azam valuing advice, especially from his father.

Expressing dissatisfaction with the conduct of the PCB and former cricketers, Azam has been advised by close associates to consider relinquishing leadership in all three formats.

Insiders suggest that this suggestion stems from the challenges prominent captains have faced in Test series in Australia, leading to recommendations for Azam to step down from captaincy roles in both red and white-ball cricket.