Pakistan Cricket Board parts ways with Mohammad Hafeez as Director of Cricket

Mohammad Hafeez and the Pakistan Cricket Board recently ended their brief, but eventful, journey together. Hafeez, a decorated former cricketer, stepped into the role of Director of Cricket in December 2023, carrying the hopes of many for a positive overhaul of the national team. However, their paths diverged just two months later, leaving several questions and unresolved debates in their wake.

Hafeez’s appointment followed Pakistan’s disappointing Cricket World Cup campaign. His vast experience, strategic mind, and passion for the game made him an attractive choice. He swiftly initiated changes, introducing new leadership roles for Shan Masood and Shaheen Afridi and emphasising fitness, discipline, and a focus on long-term development.

While some of Hafeez‘s decisions were lauded, the team’s performances remained horrendous. A Test whitewash in Australia was followed by a thrashing in New Zealand. These results, coupled with internal conflicts regarding player availability, player discontentment and adherence to directives, put pressure on Hafeez.

The final blow came when the PCB, under new leadership, opted not to renew Hafeez’s contract despite initial plans for a four-year term. This decision sparked diverse reactions. Some saw it as a knee-jerk reaction to short-term results, while others believed the change was necessary due to the lack of significant improvement. On his part, Hafeez put out a statement on social media to make it known that the parting was owing to the change at the administrative level.

“I accepted the new role as a director PCB with great passion to make positive reforms but unfortunately my designated tenure which was offered by the PCB for 4 years was cut short for 2 months on the account of new chairmanship,” the 43-year-old wrote on his X account.

“I will accordingly reveal…”

Hafeez’s public statement also hinted at “non-cricketing” factors impacting his stint. This fueled speculation about internal politics, communication gaps, and resistance to new approaches. The lack of clarity regarding the specific reasons for the separation leaves room for doubts and unanswered questions. However, Hafeez has promised to make revelations about them in due course of time.

“As always, I foremost take responsibility and put myself accountable for all my executions in my given time and will accordingly reveal all the cricketing and other amateur non-cricketing facts which ensure bad performances. Stay tuned…,” he wrote.