ICC body okays changes in selection policy

ISLAMABAD (Agencies) - The ICC's Pakistan Task Team (PTT), which presented a 38-page report during the annual conference in Hong Kong last week, has recommended changes in the PCB's administrative set-up and selection policy. The PTT also suggested the resumption of Indo-Pak cricket. The task team said undue government interference in the PCB's running must end, including the system whereby the PCB chairman is appointed by the country's president. It also said that more stability is necessary when it comes to selecting the national squad, noting that Pakistan has had at least five different sets of selectors in the last five years. "There must be stability in the composition of selection committee," the report said, adding that the PCB "chairman's right of veto on the selection of players should be removed". Presently 45 players are centrally contracted with the PCB, including 30 in category A, B and C, with 15 receiving monthly stipends. The PTT suggested that the number of contracted players be restricted to 25, plus 10 stipends. The absence of Indo-Pak cricket, the report said, is hurting the sport. "The absence of the traditional bilateral series between Pakistan and India from the international cricket calendar is denying millions of cricket loving fans across the world from enjoying an iconic series. It is also hurting the sport, particularly in Pakistan and the PTT sees no reason why this great sporting rivalry should not be restored as soon as possible, even if on neutral soil."

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