“Ex-Chief Selector Criticizes Azhar Mahmood, Calls for Removal of ‘Incompetent’ Coaches“
KARACHI:
In a candid critique of the current state of Pakistani cricket, former Test cricketer and ex-chief selector Salahuddin Ahmed Sallu has expressed deep concern over the perceived incompetence within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and its impact on the national team. Speaking to the Express Tribune on Tuesday, Sallu voiced his frustration with the recent performance of the national team, particularly following their disheartening ten-wicket loss to Bangladesh in the first Test of the series.
Sallu, who has been a prominent figure in Pakistani cricket for over three decades, conveyed his anguish over the team’s declining fortunes. “It is truly disheartening to see our cricket team consistently underperforming,” Sallu said. “In the past, Pakistan cricket was a force to be reckoned with on the international stage. Our team achieved great victories and earned respect globally. The current situation, where we are losing matches frequently, is a stark contrast to that glorious past.”
Reflecting on the roots of the problem, Sallu emphasized the need for a revival at the grassroots level. “We need to focus on rejuvenating school and club cricket,” he argued. “Many of our great cricketers emerged from these levels of the game. If we want to restore our cricketing prowess, we must reinvest in these foundational aspects and ensure that young talent is nurtured properly.”
Sallu underscored the importance of placing the right individuals in key positions within the PCB. He specifically criticized Azhar Mahmood, a former coach whose performance he deemed unsatisfactory. “It’s high time we made tough decisions to improve our cricketing infrastructure,” Sallu stated. “While I appreciate the efforts of PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi, I believe it’s essential to make domestic cricket participation mandatory for players to ensure a robust development system.”
“Furthermore, individuals like Azhar Mahmood, who have proven to be ineffective, should be removed from their positions,” Sallu added. “He was dismissed by Islamabad United during the PSL 8 season for failing to motivate or guide the players effectively. It raises the question of why he remains associated with the national team.”
Sallu also critiqued the current coaching staff, particularly focusing on the lackluster performance of Pakistani batsmen. He highlighted a series of poor shot selections, including a particularly shocking dismissal by Saud Shakeel in the second innings. “The way Saud Shakeel was dismissed, leaving the crease without assessing the ball’s trajectory, was alarming,” Sallu remarked. “Similarly, the dismissals of Shan Masood, Babar Azam, and others indicated a troubling lack of application under pressure. Our coaches must work on preparing our batsmen to handle such situations better.”
In addition to batting concerns, Sallu noted that Pakistan’s bowlers had failed to make a significant impact. He pointed out that Bangladesh’s bowlers exploited the pitch conditions at Pindi more effectively than Shaheen Afridi, Naseem Shah, and other Pakistani bowlers. “It’s clear that our bowlers need better guidance on how to adapt to various conditions,” Sallu said. “I would suggest that Australian bowling coach Jason Gillespie work on enhancing our bowlers’ effectiveness across different pitches.”
Sallu also questioned the team selection, particularly the decision to go into the Test without a specialist spinner like Abrar Ahmed. “It was a mistake not to include a spinner,” he concluded. “Our strategy would have benefited from his presence, especially given the conditions.”
Overall, Sallu’s comments reflect a broader concern about the strategic and managerial aspects of Pakistani cricket. His call for sweeping changes and a return to fundamental cricketing principles underscores the urgency he feels to address the current challenges facing the national team