PCB Confirms Former Cricketers Kamran Akmal, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, and Salman Butt as Consultant Members to Chief Selector

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has officially ratified the appointment of ex-Pakistan cricketers Kamran Akmal, Rao Iftikhar Anjum, and Salman Butt as consultant members to Chief Selector Wahab Riaz, marking a new phase in the selection panel’s composition.

Effective immediately, the trio will join Chief Selector Wahab Riaz in their roles, with their primary task revolving around the selection responsibilities for the impending five-match T20I series against New Zealand, scheduled to kick off on 12 January 2024. Their tenure is set to commence post the culmination of the Test tour to Australia.

Besides their primary duties, the consultant members might also engage in supplementary tasks, potentially involving the organization and execution of skills enhancement camps for emerging talents.

Kamran Akmal, boasting a distinguished career spanning 15 years from 2002 to 2017, featured in 53 Tests, 157 ODIs, and 58 T20Is. Renowned for his adept wicketkeeping and batting skills, Akmal accumulated 6,871 runs across formats while effecting 453 dismissals behind the stumps. Notably, he was an integral part of the triumphant Pakistan team that clinched the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup in 2009 held at Lord’s.

Rao Iftikhar Anjum, during his tenure from 2004 to 2010, contributed significantly in one Test, 62 ODIs, and two T20Is, amassing a total of 78 international wickets. Anjum was also a pivotal member of the victorious T20 World Cup squad in 2009, showcasing his bowling prowess on the global stage.

Salman Butt, the former Test captain, left an indelible mark in 33 Tests, 78 ODIs, and 24 T20Is, accumulating 5,209 runs across formats, which included 11 international centuries. His noteworthy performances contributed to Pakistan’s success, notably being a part of the T20 World Cup-winning side in 2009.

The inclusion of these seasoned cricketers in the selection panel not only adds depth and expertise but also provides a blend of experience and contemporary insights to the selection process, aiming to fortify Pakistan’s cricketing prospects in the times ahead.