The Pakistan Cricket Board has launched an internal investigation into player discipline and conduct during the team’s tour of England, citing unspecified media reports as the trigger for the inquiry.
Media director Amir Mir confirmed on social media that the PCB “has initiated an internal disciplinary inquiry following media reports concerning discipline and conduct, which are currently being reviewed internally.” He added that the board adheres to standard procedures and is conducting the process under its regulations, ensuring all concerned individuals receive due consideration.
The probe follows significant turmoil within the men’s national team, currently based in Birmingham for the third and final Test against England. After a 194-run defeat at Lord’s gave England an unassailable 2-0 series lead, the PCB recalled seven players, removed head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul after just six matches, and appointed white-ball coaches Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke as interim leaders.
PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had earlier suggested an investigation was forthcoming during an interview with Pakistani outlet Geo. “We have had a discussion to ascertain the reasons behind it [team’s poor performances],” Naqvi stated. “They include factors beyond performance and we will get to the bottom of it.”
According to Cricinfo, the coaching overhaul resulted from a communication breakdown between the touring selection committee—comprising Sarfaraz and captain Babar Azam—and Aaqib Javed, the PCB’s director of high performance and one of four selectors. Aaqib publicly criticized Sarfaraz’s selectorial decisions.
Aaqib also raised questions about opener Imam-ul-Haq, who sustained a calf tear on the first day of the second Test and did not bat. Aaqib believed Imam should have batted and echoed Naqvi’s concerns about discipline, stating the changes were made because “the world was laughing at us.”
As of now, details regarding the investigation’s scope, timeline, and potential sanctions remain unclear. It is also uncertain whether the inquiry targets only recalled players or extends to squad members currently training in Birmingham for the third Test, scheduled to begin on September 9.
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