Former Pakistan cricketer Mohammad Hafeez has stepped down from his position as the Director of the Pakistan men’s cricket team at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).
The decision follows the newly-appointed PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s refusal to meet with Hafeez, who intended to submit a report about the team’s tour of Australia and New Zealand.
Hafeez took on the role of Director of Cricket in November 2023, replacing Mickey Arthur, as part of a significant shakeup within the team’s management following the disappointing performance in the Asia Cup 2023 and the World Cup 2023.
Sources suggest that the PCB and Hafeez have mutually agreed to part ways, with the board showing no interest in continuing to work with the former cricketer.
In a statement, the PCB expressed gratitude to Mohammad Hafeez for his contributions, acknowledging his passion for the game and the importance of his mentorship during the recent tour. Hafeez, who represented Pakistan in 55 Tests, 218 ODIs, and 119 T20Is, scored 12,780 runs and took 253 wickets.
Reports earlier indicated a strained relationship between Hafeez and senior players during the New Zealand tour. Players were reportedly unhappy with long meetings and Hafeez’s stern approach to team management.
Additionally, there were issues with obtaining No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for players participating in various T20 leagues, potentially contributing to the decision to part ways. The situation had raised concerns that the relationship between Hafeez and the players could worsen if there was no change in the dynamics between the two parties.
