Pakistan chief selector Wahab Riaz fires Salman Butt from selection panel, namedrops former India skipper Azharuddin

Following widespread backlash from fans and former cricketers, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has removed Salman Butt from the national selection panel. Initially appointed as a consultant to chief selector Wahab Riaz just days ago, the decision faced intense criticism, prompting the PCB to backtrack the appointment.

Chief selector Wahab Riaz clarified in a press conference, stating, "Salman Butt isn't on any PCB panel," emphasising Butt's role as a cricketing mind with expertise. Wahab cited concerns about nepotism and undue influence, expressing his decision to revert the appointment. Meanwhile, Riaz named former India skipper Mohammad Azharuddin and Ajay Jadeja.

While speaking with reporters, he said, "In India, we have examples of Mohammad Azharuddin and Ajay Jadeja. They are working in cricket now, and there is no fuss. Azharuddin is president of one of the cricket associations, and Jadeja was Afghanistan's batting consultant in the World Cup," Wahab said.

"Some tried to run propaganda," says Wahab Riaz

explaining his decision to appoint Salman Butt as his consultant Riaz said that he likes Salman as a cricketer. "Salman Butt isn't on any PCB panel. For me, he is a good cricketer who understands cricket and has been covering domestic cricket for the past 2–3 years. He was made my consultant just to get his opinion, based on which some media houses and people started doing propaganda,” Wahab said in a press conference.

"As a chief selector, it's my decision as to who will work with me and whose support I need. But people started discussing nepotism and dosti, due to which I am reverting this decision. I have already spoken to Salman Butt and told him that he cannot be a part of my team," he added. It's worth noting that these consultants and the chief selector will need to pick teams for the upcoming T20I series.