The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has recently announced the addition of three former Pakistan cricket stalwarts – Kamran Akmal, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, and Salman Butt – to serve as consultant members, working closely with the Chief Selector, Wahab Riaz.
These seasoned ex-cricketers have swiftly embraced their roles within the selection panel. As consultant members aiding the Chief Selector, their primary responsibility revolves around overseeing the forthcoming five-match T20I series against New Zealand. The series is set to commence on January 12, 2024, following the conclusion of Pakistan’s Test tour to Australia.
Kamran Akmal, known for his illustrious 15-year career from 2002 to 2017, boasted an impressive international record across formats. His participation in 53 Tests, 157 ODIs, and 58 T20Is amassed a total of 6,871 runs. As a former wicketkeeper-batsman, Akmal also contributed significantly with 453 dismissals behind the stumps. Notably, he played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s victorious campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2009 held at Lord’s.
Rao Iftikhar, who showcased his prowess between 2004 and 2010, featured in a Test, 62 ODIs, and two T20Is, showcasing his mettle with 78 international wickets. He notably contributed to Pakistan’s triumph in the T20 World Cup in 2009.
Salman Butt, the former Test skipper, left an indelible mark in Pakistan cricket during his tenure, representing the nation in 33 Tests, 78 ODIs, and 24 T20Is. His cumulative tally of 5,209 runs across formats included 11 international centuries. Butt was an integral part of the victorious T20 World Cup team in 2009, contributing significantly to Pakistan’s success.
The addition of these seasoned veterans as consultant members alongside Wahab Riaz heralds an era of experienced guidance and strategic insight within the PCB’s selection setup, aiming to bolster Pakistan’s performance on the international stage.
