Inzamam-ul-Haq, the chief selector of the Pakistan cricket team, has resigned from his position due to a potential conflict of interest. This decision comes as Pakistan’s performance in the Cricket World Cup 2023 has been disappointing, with only two wins out of six matches, putting them at risk of elimination in the group stage. According to a report by Geo News, Inzamam is a shareholder in “Yazo International Limited,” a company owned by cricketer agent Talha Rehmani. This company represents several cricketers, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi.
The ongoing dispute over player salaries has caused controversy regarding Inzamam’s involvement, which may have ultimately led to his resignation. In response to the allegations, Inzamam approached the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and requested an inquiry. He stated, “People speak without research. Questions were raised on me, so I decided that it was better I resign.” Inzamam emphasized that he has no relation to the player-agent company and urged the PCB to conduct their own research.
Inzamam previously served as the chief selector from August 2016 until July 2019 and was reinstated ahead of the Asia Cup 2023. He expressed his willingness for the board to investigate any doubts they had. In response to the situation, the PCB has formed a five-member fact-finding committee to look into the allegations of conflict of interest.
Meanwhile, Pakistan coach Grant Bradburn dismissed claims that the players had not been paid for five months. Despite the team’s struggles in the World Cup, Bradburn stated that the squad is determined to turn their campaign around. Pakistan needs to win against Bangladesh to keep their slim hopes of making it to the semi-finals alive.
The World Cup journey for Pakistan has been plagued by arguments over pay and delays in central contract agreements. Three players in the squad confirmed that they had not received their payments. The PCB announced that contracts have been sent to India and the players have signed them, which should facilitate the payment process.
The PCB’s fact-finding committee will investigate the allegations of conflict of interest and submit a report with recommendations. Pakistan’s cricket team aims to overcome their challenges and make their nation proud in the remaining matches of the World Cup.
