Zaka Ashraf step down as PCB Chairman | Image tweeted by @FazilKashmiri17
In a surprising turn of events, Zaka Ashraf, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Management Committee Chairperson, announced his resignation on January 19. This decision follows a managing committee meeting at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore. Ashraf thanked PCB members and Patron Caretaker Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar for their support during his brief tenure.
According to a statement by Ashraf cited the challenges faced in working for the betterment of cricket, stating, “I was working for the betterment of cricket, but we can’t work in this way.” It has raised questions about the circumstances leading to his resignation and the challenges faced by the PCB under his leadership.
Ashraf mentioned that the appointment of his successor is now in the hands of Prime Minister Anwaar-ul-Haq Kakar. The next chairman will play a crucial role in guiding Pakistan cricket and addressing the issues that may have led to Ashraf’s resignation.
The news of Ashraf’s resignation comes on the heels of other significant departures in Pakistani cricket. Mickey Arthur, Grant Bradburn, and Andrew Puttick resigned from their positions at the National Cricket Academy (NCA) in Lahore just a day before Ashraf’s announcement. These concurrent developments raise questions about Pakistan cricket’s overall stability and direction.
Notably, Pakistan cricket faced challenges on the field during Ashraf’s tenure. The team failed to reach the Asia Cup final and was knocked out in the league stages of the ODI World Cup in India. The lack of major achievements during this period likely influenced the leadership changes.
Following the resignation, there may be additional changes in the PCB’s leadership structure, with a new chairperson expected to be appointed shortly. The impact of these changes on the team’s performance and overall cricket development in Pakistan remains to be seen.
Zaka Ashraf’s resignation marks a significant development in the administration of Pakistan cricket. Cricket enthusiasts and stakeholders alike will closely watch the succession plan and the subsequent decisions the PCB makes as the nation looks to navigate its way forward in international cricket.
