Lahore, 14 March 2026:
Pakistan’s national men’s selection committee on Saturday defended its selection policies and decision-making process following criticism over the team’s recent ICC tournament performance, saying the squad was chosen through consultation with the captain and coaching staff and not by individuals acting alone.
Speaking at a press conference at Gaddafi Stadium, selector Aqib Javed said the panel believed the team had the potential to reach the semifinals but did not produce the expected results.
“We were hopeful about the World Cup, but unfortunately we did not get the results we expected. The team was capable of at least reaching the semifinals,” Aqib said. “Criticism is part of the game, but the selection process is done with mutual coordination.”
The current selection committee includes Aqib, Misbah-ul-Haq, Sarfaraz Ahmed and Asad Shafiq.
Aqib rejected suggestions that selectors dictate the playing XI, saying the final team is decided by the captain and coach.
“We provide a pool of players after discussion with the coach and captain. Once the squad is finalised, the playing eleven is the responsibility of the team management,” he said. “We do not interfere in the final XI.”
He added that selection decisions are based on long-term performance rather than one tournament.
“You cannot pick players just because of one event. Domestic cricket, consistency over time and team requirements are all part of the process,” Aqib said.
The selectors also said they will review policies with the coaching staff before the next international cycle as Pakistan begins preparations for future ICC events.
