Mohammad Hafeez was appointed Pakistan’s Team Director after the ICC World Cup 2023 debacle, replacing Mickey Arthur, who was sent to the National Cricket Academy (NCA). Hafeez faced severe criticism over his strict rules and regulations, which did not sit well with players during the recent tours of Australia and New Zealand.
Furthermore, reports suggested that during the New Zealand tour, Mohammad Hafeez’s stringent approach caused discontent among the players. The discontent was caused due to the long team meetings led by Mohammad Hafeez, which became a point of contention.
Senior players, already burdened with the pressure of the game, are expressing frustration at what they perceive as a waste of time, disrupting the team’s environment. Beyond the management issues, senior players were also at loggerheads with Hafeez over the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for BPL and ILT20, which they got later.
Hafeez is set to spill beans
Mohammad Hafeez is now set to address the nation in a press conference upon his return from New Zealand. The 43-year-old is expected to unravel the truth behind the recent string of defeats as well as controversies during the tours of Australia and New Zealand.
The presser, scheduled for January 26 in Lahore, promises to spill beans about the fines imposed on players, strategic changes, the adoption of a rotation policy, the cold war within the team and much more.
Will this be the end of Hafeez’s tenure?
Hafeez’s stint as Team Director began with the Test series in Australia, witnessing Pakistan’s 3-0 whitewash Down Under and a 4-1 loss in the T20I series against New Zealand.
Rumours circulating in the local media hint at Hafeez’s journey with the team ending upon his arrival in the country. He initially had a contract with the team until December 15. However, upon his return to Pakistan, the PCB is expected not to extend his contract.
Adding to the unfolding drama, other coaches and officials recruited during the tenure of ex-Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf are anticipated to submit their resignations.
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