"Wish our team all the best" - Mohammad Yousaf steps down as selector of Pakistan men's team
Former Pakistan middle-order batter Mohammad Yousaf has stepped down as the selector of the men's cricket team, citing personal reasons. The 50-year-old claimed it was a privilege to serve in the position and wished the team the best of luck in their future endeavors.
It is unclear when Yousaf was promoted to the role of the selector. He likely stepped up when the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) sacked Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq from their positions after the Men in Green's forgettable T20 World Cup 2024 campaign. However, the former right-handed batter was appointed the batting coach ahead of the landmark home series against Australia in early 2022.
He wrote in a tweet:
"I announce my resignation as a selector for the Pakistan cricket team due to personal reasons. Serving this incredible team has been a profound privilege, and I am proud to have contributed to the growth and success of Pakistan Cricket. I have immense faith in the talent and spirit of our players, and Wish our team all the best as they continue to strive for greatness."
Yousaf's last assignment was likely picking the 15-man squad for the upcoming three-match Test series at home against England, beginning on October 7.
Pakistan will face a stern test against England after a humiliating series defeat to Bangladesh
Meanwhile, Shan Masood and company will face a stern test against England, having sustained a humiliating recent series loss to Bangladesh on home soil. It was their first Test series loss against the Bangla Tigers, but the Pakistan squad to face England in the opening Test hasn't undergone any wholesale changes. Masood, whose captaincy position was in jeopardy, has also retained his place and position.
England, led by Ben Stokes, had inflicted a series sweep on the Men in Green in their backyard in 2022. The tourists are likely to arrive in Multan on October 2.