LAHORE: The members of the Board of Governors of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) have expressed their concern over the dismal performance of the national side, which lost the Test series at home to Bangladesh 2-0 earlier this month.

Dawn has learnt that the members voiced their concerns during the

74th meeting of the BoG, held in Faisalabad on Thursday.

In response, PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi had no satisfactory reply and admitted that the performance was disappointing.

However, he assured the members that all relevant officials of the Pakistan team and the PCB would brief them about the steps being taken to improve the national team’s performance in the future.

This was the first time Bangladesh won Test matches against Pakistan, and most surprisingly, it happened on Pakistan’s home ground — a scenario no expert had predicted, given the past records between the two countries.

Bangladesh achieved their victories by a significant margin, winning the first Test by 10 wickets and the second by six wickets.

This was despite the fact that play on the first day of the second Test at Pindi Stadium was interrupted by rain, which also affected the second day’s play.

Meanwhile, the PCB issued a press release following the meeting, stating that the BoG had suggested that the PCB take control of Iqbal Stadium from the Punjab government and manage it as

it does with other stadiums such as Gaddafi Stadium in Lahore, Multan Cricket Stadium, and National Stadium in Karachi.

Iqbal Stadium, Faisalabad, also hosted the much-publicised inaugural tournament of the PCB, the Champions One-day Cup, after many years of inactivity.

The BoG members also suggested that the Champions Cup be incorporated into the PCB’s constitution to prevent future PCB chairmen from removing the competition from the domestic cricket calendar.

It is worth noting that past PCB chairmen have frequently made changes to the domestic cricket structure, which has contributed to the decline of the game in Pakistan.

The BoG also suggested the PCB should take complete control of Iqbal Stadium and upgrade it to international standards.

This would revive the venue and enable it to host bilateral international series once again.

“An update was provided to the BoG on the progress of infrastructure projects concerning design and scope,” said a PCB press release. “Members expressed their complete support and satisfaction with the projects, stating that these initiatives are crucial and, once completed, will enhance the image and profile of Pakistan and Pakistan cricket.”

Published in Dawn, September 13th, 2024