After serving as a member of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selection committee for about six months, former cricketer Mohammad Yousaf resigned on Sunday due to personal reasons. Yousaf, who was appointed to the selection committee in March 2024, expressed pride in contributing to the national squad’s growth and success.
In a statement shared on X (formerly Twitter), Yousaf announced his resignation and reflected on his tenure with the team. “Serving this incredible team has been a profound privilege, and I am proud to have contributed to the growth and success of Pakistan Cricket,” he wrote. Yousaf also expressed his confidence in the talent and spirit of the players, wishing them the best in their future endeavors.
Confirming Yousaf’s resignation, the PCB acknowledged his significant contributions and clarified that he stepped down to focus on other key responsibilities within the board. “The PCB expresses its sincere gratitude to Mohammad Yousuf for his invaluable contributions during his tenure as a selection committee member. Yousuf will continue to play a pivotal role at the PCB, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience as the batting coach at the High Performance Centre,” said a PCB spokesperson.
Yousuf had been the head coach of the Pakistan U19 side that finished third in the ICC U19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2024 in South Africa. His role in nurturing young talent was seen as vital to the future of Pakistan cricket.
Yousaf’s appointment to the selection committee was part of a reorganization by PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on March 24, 2024. The newly formed committee included seven members, each with equal powers, and aimed to bring fresh perspectives to the team selection process. However, following the national team’s poor performance and elimination from the T20 World Cup 2024, the PCB made significant changes to the team management. This included sacking former pacer Wahab Riaz and former all-rounder Abdul Razzaq from the selection committee, while retaining Yousuf, Asad Shafiq, and Bilal Afzal.
The PCB also removed Riaz from his position as senior team manager, along with team manager Rana Mansoor, citing issues of discipline during the last three tours of the men’s team. These changes reflected the board’s commitment to improving team performance and ensuring better discipline and management.
Yousaf’s resignation marks the end of a significant chapter in his cricketing career, where he transitioned from a celebrated player to a mentor and selector. His continued involvement in coaching and development roles within the PCB highlights his ongoing dedication to the sport and his desire to see Pakistan cricket thrive. As the national team looks to rebuild and achieve new heights, Yousaf’s legacy and contributions will undoubtedly remain influential.
