The appointment of former fast bowler Waqar Younis as an advisor to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi has sparked legal challenges. A citizen named Mashkoor Hussain has lodged a petition in the Lahore High Court, questioning the legitimacy of Younis’ appointment.
Represented by attorney Nadeem Sarwar, the petition argues that the procedure for Younis’ appointment did not follow the standard protocols. The central point of contention is that the PCB did not advertise the position in newspapers, which is a required step in the appointment process. The petition also highlights irregularities in the appointments of Gary Kirsten as the Pakistan men’s team’s white-ball coach and Jason Gillespie as the red-ball coach.
Legal Arguments and Implications
The petition filed by Mashkoor Hussain calls for the nullification of Younis’ appointment due to the alleged procedural lapses. Hussain’s argument is based on the premise that the PCB violated its own rules by not publicly announcing the vacancy and conducting a transparent selection process. This omission, according to Hussain, undermines the legality of Younis’ appointment.
The case has significant implications for the governance of the PCB and its adherence to established protocols. If the court rules in favor of the petitioner, it could lead to a reassessment of the PCB’s hiring practices and potentially nullify other recent appointments made under similar circumstances.
Waqar Younis’ Response
During a recent press conference, Waqar Younis, a veteran of 87 Test matches, addressed the PCB’s move to introduce three new domestic tournaments. He emphasized the importance of involving renowned cricketers in the development of the sport.
Younis stated, “We will appoint five legends to head the teams and I am already in touch with some of them. Cricket’s current state is clear: improvements are necessary. While stadiums are important, our focus should be on enhancing the quality of play. Involving renowned cricketers and legends in the process is crucial. The Chairman’s idea to involve these figures is excellent, and we’ve discussed it with some legends. We’ll soon announce the names of those who will help advance the sport.”
Future of Pakistan Cricket
Despite the legal challenges, the PCB is moving forward with its plans. The Pakistan men’s team is scheduled to face Bangladesh in a Test series beginning on August 21. The PCB announced the squads on Tuesday, August 7, with Shan Masood as the captain and Saud Shakeel as his deputy.
The legal dispute over Waqar Younis’ appointment adds an element of uncertainty to the PCB’s administrative landscape. The outcome of this case will likely influence future appointments and the overall governance framework within the PCB.
Broader Impact
This legal challenge underscores the importance of transparency and adherence to established protocols in sports administration. The outcome of this case could set a precedent for how sports bodies in Pakistan and potentially elsewhere handle appointments and administrative decisions.
As the case progresses, stakeholders in Pakistan cricket will be closely monitoring the developments, which could have lasting impacts on the governance and operational integrity of the PCB.
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