Former Pakistan cricketer and Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) think-tank member Aqib Javed has returned to Lahore after a brief stay in London and will continue performing his responsibilities as an important official within the board.
The 54-year-old Aqib Javed had travelled to London following Pakistan’s 194-run defeat to England in the Lord’s Test. During his stay, he also attended a dinner hosted by King Charles at Buckingham Palace on September 2, along with the national team.
Aqib Javed also participated in an important meeting of the PCB with the board chairman during his time in London. His involvement in key cricketing decisions has, however, drawn strong criticism from former cricketers and various circles of Pakistan cricket.
The criticism intensified following Pakistan’s defeat in the Lord’s Test and a series of controversial decisions concerning the national team. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed, bowling coach Umar Gul and seven players were reportedly removed from the team unexpectedly, while six players were called up from Pakistan.
These decisions have sparked considerable debate within the cricketing fraternity, with critics questioning the PCB’s handling of the team and particularly Aqib Javed’s role in the decision-making process. Calls for his resignation have also emerged following the disappointing developments surrounding the Test squad.
However, highly reliable sources within the PCB have confirmed that Aqib Javed remains in his position and continues to carry out the responsibilities assigned to him by the board.
According to the sources, Aqib remains involved in important decisions concerning Pakistan cricket and continues to perform his official duties. There is currently no indication that he has been removed from his position or that he has stepped down.
The PCB had also sent a letter seeking an explanation from the selection committee regarding the Test squad selected for the tour of England. The board reportedly raised several questions concerning the selection of players and the decision-making process.
In this regard, Aqib Javed has already presented his position and explanation to the PCB, according to sources familiar with the matter. His response is now part of the board’s consideration as it reviews the circumstances surrounding the selection of the England Test squad.
Despite the criticism directed at him, Aqib is expected to remain an important part of the PCB setup and continue contributing to major cricketing decisions.
Aqib Javed has a distinguished playing career with Pakistan. The right-arm fast bowler represented the national team in international cricket between 1988 and 1998. During his Test career, he took 54 wickets, while he claimed 182 wickets in One-Day Internationals.
He was also a member of Pakistan’s historic 1992 World Cup-winning squad, which lifted the trophy under the captaincy of Imran Khan.
After his playing career, Aqib remained involved in coaching and cricket administration and has continued to play an influential role in Pakistan cricket.
His return to Lahore comes at a time when the PCB is facing intense scrutiny over recent decisions concerning the national team. The changes made after the Lord’s Test defeat have generated widespread discussion among former players, analysts and cricket supporters.
While his critics are demanding greater accountability and questioning his role in recent decisions, PCB sources maintain that Aqib Javed continues to hold an important position within the organisation and is carrying out his assigned responsibilities.
For now, Aqib is expected to remain part of the board’s decision-making structure and continue serving Pakistan cricket in his current capacity. Any future decision regarding his position would depend on the PCB’s internal review and the board’s assessment of the explanations provided by the relevant officials.
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