KARACHI: Former Pakistan captain Younis Khan has said that he is willing to serve Pakistan cricket again, provided he is given the authority and freedom to perform his responsibilities without unnecessary restrictions.
Speaking to the media in Karachi, Younis said he has consistently conveyed the same message to successive chairmen of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) whenever discussions about a role within the board have taken place.
“I have always told the PCB chairman that if you give me a role, then give me the full opportunity to work. My hands should not be tied,” he said.
The former captain noted that he has held discussions with several PCB chairmen over the years and often hears claims that he is seeking greater authority within the board.
Rejecting that perception, Younis said his focus has never been on power or influence.
“People say Younis Khan wants power. What would I do with power? What matters to me is the freedom to work and deliver results,” he remarked.
He explained that if he is entrusted with any responsibility, he should be allowed to build and manage the team according to his vision.
“Whatever role you assign me, let me build the team and perform my duties without unnecessary interference,” he added.
Younis also emphasized that financial incentives have never been his primary motivation.
According to the former captain, professional independence and the ability to produce meaningful results are more important than salary packages.
He added that if he were ever to negotiate over financial matters, his concern would be for the welfare of players, particularly those in the lowest-paid positions.
“If I ever discuss a package, it would be for the player in the weakest financial position rather than for myself,” he said.
Reflecting on Pakistan cricket’s future, Younis expressed confidence that the national team can regain its competitive strength, but stressed that players must be prepared to accept greater responsibility.
He recalled the period after the 2003 ICC Cricket World Cup, when several senior players left the team and a new generation stepped forward to rebuild Pakistan cricket.
“After the 2003 World Cup, we took responsibility when senior players moved on. Today’s players must also step up if Pakistan cricket is to move forward,” he said.
Younis concluded by encouraging current cricketers to think ambitiously and embrace leadership roles.
“If players think big, the results will also be bigger and more positive,” he said.
Widely regarded as one of Pakistan’s greatest batsmen, Younis Khan remains the country’s highest Test run-scorer and has previously served in coaching and mentoring roles. His latest remarks have renewed discussion about the potential return of former international players to key positions within Pakistan cricket.
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