Shoaib Akhtar Meets Mohsin Naqvi Amid PCB Reshuffle, Former Pacer Tipped for Key Role : Report

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is reportedly in line for a crucial position within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the governing body initiates a sweeping restructuring of its cricket think tank. The development follows a highly disappointing 3-0 Test series defeat against England, which concluded earlier this month. Akhtar, aged 51, met with PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, 47, in Islamabad on September 26, 2026, with reports suggesting he has been offered the role of chief selector, though the 'Rawalpindi Express' is believed to be eyeing a more extensive portfolio within Pakistan cricket. Mohammad Rizwan’s Non-Cooperation Delays NCCIA Probe Into Online Betting Allegations: Report.

The discussions between Akhtar and Naqvi reportedly went beyond just the chief selector's position, indicating a broader potential involvement for the legendary pacer. This strategic move by the PCB comes as the board faces immense pressure to address the national team's recent poor performances and implement significant changes across its cricket administration.

England Tour Debacle Triggers PCB Overhaul

The impetus for this major reshuffle is Pakistan's dismal performance during their three-match Test series in England, played from August 19 to September 13, 2026. The Babar Azam-led side suffered a humiliating 3-0 whitewash, failing to provide any significant challenge to the home team.

The series saw Pakistan undergo drastic mid-tour changes. Following a heavy defeat in the Lord's Test (England won by 194 runs), the PCB released seven players from the squad and called in an equal number of replacements. The coaching staff also experienced significant alterations, with Sarfaraz Ahmed and Umar Gul removed from their red-ball roles. Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke were brought in for the remainder of the series, though Noffke has since resigned from his position as Pakistan’s bowling coach to become the Netherlands head coach.

Key Performances from the England Test Series (August-September 2026)

Note: England won the three-match series 3-0. Individual match results included wins by an innings and 103 runs (1st Test), 194 runs (2nd Test), and 8 wickets (3rd Test). Pakistan was also deducted 11 points and fined 50% of their match fees for a slow over-rate in one match.

Leadership Changes and Future Vision

Mohsin Naqvi, who has served as PCB Chairman since February 2024, has been vocal about the need for greater emphasis on younger players and improved transparency in the selection process. He explicitly stated that players who consistently failed to perform would no longer receive opportunities. Babar Azam Wicket Video: Pakistan Star Batter Falls For 4 To Register Back-To-Back Failures on First-Class Comeback.

The selection committee has already seen changes, with former captain Misbah-ul-Haq stepping down earlier this month, informing the PCB of his decision to leave after completing his notice period. Akhtar himself has been a strong critic of Pakistan's recent cricketing approach, advocating for a change in mindset and more opportunities for emerging talent.

This potential appointment of Shoaib Akhtar signals the PCB's determination to bring in strong, influential figures to reshape the future of Pakistan cricket following a period of considerable turbulence and underperformance on the international stage. The board is committed to a fresh approach to elevate the national team's performance and restore its prominence in international cricket.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Sep 29, 2026 02:55 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).