Shoaib Akhtar in line for major PCB posting as Mohsin Naqvi begins cricket overhaul

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is in line for a major position within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as chairman Mohsin Naqvi pushes forward with plans to overhaul the nation's cricketing think tank.

Akhtar, widely known as one of the board's most outspoken critics in recent years, recently held extensive discussions with Naqvi regarding the future direction of Pakistan cricket. The meeting took place in Islamabad, where Akhtar is based.

Strengthened Relations and High-Level Talks

According to sources close to the PCB, the rapport between Naqvi and Akhtar strengthened recently after the PCB chief extended personal support following the passing of Akhtar's elder brother.

“A few weeks back when Shoaib’s elder brother passed away, Mohsin Naqvi had interacted with him closely and was there for him. This gesture impressed Shoaib a lot, who has been a vocal critic of the PCB and Pakistan cricket in the past in his media appearances,” a source revealed.

“Shoaib is in line to get a major posting, but obviously when he met with the Chairman, he had his own set of ideas and conditions through which he believes Pakistan cricket can be taken forward.”

PCB Eyes Sweeping Overhaul Across Setups

The prospective appointment comes amid significant fallout from Pakistan's disastrous tour of England, where the men's national side suffered a humiliating 3-0 Test series whitewash—their first-ever clean sweep defeat in a Test series on English soil.

The PCB has already initiated major shake-ups, having sent home several senior players and support staff members during that tour. In addition to restructuring the men's team management, the board is considering hiring foreign coaches and consultants following the departures of fielding coach Shane McDermott and batting coach Ashley Noffke. A permanent head coach for the women's national team is also being targeted.

“The board is working on some plans for the future and there will be some changes in the cricket think tank soon because the Chairman has made it clear that he expects better results from the national men's, women's, Shaheens, and junior teams,” the source added.

If finalized, the role would mark a dramatic transition for Akhtar from an outside analyst and frequent PCB critic to a central decision-maker steering the country's cricketing fortunes.