Shoaib Akhtar in Line for Key PCB Role

Pakistan cricket may be heading into another major reset, and this time one of its most famous names could be part of it. Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar is reportedly in line for a significant role in the Pakistan Cricket Board after a recent meeting with PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad.

The development comes at a time when the board is planning sweeping changes following Pakistan’s disappointing Test tour of England, where the team suffered a whitewash. With pressure mounting across the setup, the PCB appears ready to reshape its cricket structure from the top down.

A familiar voice could enter the PCB setup

According to reports, Naqvi has been exploring ways to strengthen Pakistan cricket’s decision-making unit, and Akhtar’s name has emerged as a serious option. The former pacer has long been one of the loudest critics of the board, often calling for stronger planning, clearer accountability and a more professional cricket culture.

Now, that outspoken voice may be brought inside the system rather than kept outside it. Sources claim the recent interaction between the two helped build trust, especially after Naqvi reportedly stood by Akhtar during a difficult personal period following the death of his elder brother.

That gesture appears to have left a strong impression. One source told PTI that the relationship between the two has grown warmer in recent weeks, with Naqvi also inviting Akhtar to visit the National Cricket Academy and team training camps.

What role could Akhtar take?

The exact position has not been confirmed, but reports suggest it would be a major posting with influence over cricket planning and development. If the move happens, Akhtar is expected to bring his own views and conditions to the table, shaped by years of watching Pakistan cricket from both inside and outside the system.

A source quoted in the report said that Akhtar and Naqvi discussed ideas for moving Pakistan cricket forward. That includes a broader rethink of how the men’s, women’s, Shaheens and junior teams are managed.

“There will be some changes in the cricket think tank soon,” the source said, adding that the chairman wants better results across every level of the game.

PCB planning wider changes after England setback

The potential inclusion of Akhtar is only one part of a wider shake-up. The PCB is also expected to approach foreign coaches and consultants as it looks to rebuild the men’s team support structure.

Recent changes have already signalled that the board is not waiting around. Senior fielding coach Shane McDermott and batting coach Ashley Noffke have departed, while bowling coach Umar Gul was removed after the England tour. Those decisions sparked mixed reactions, but they also underlined how serious the PCB is about changing direction.

Pakistan’s coaching setup has already seen notable movement, with Mike Hesson taking over from Sarfaraz Ahmed. Now, reports suggest the board is still reviewing more names for key roles, including former Australia quick Shaun Tait and former New Zealand batter Martin Guptill.

Could foreign expertise return to Pakistan cricket?

The move toward experienced overseas coaches would not be surprising, given Pakistan’s repeated struggles in major series. The PCB has previously relied on foreign expertise in fast-bowling and support roles, but continuity has often been a problem.

Shaun Tait is no stranger to Pakistan cricket, having previously served as the men’s fast-bowling coach in 2022. While his earlier stint did not continue long-term, his name being linked again suggests the board is open to revisiting familiar options if they fit the bigger rebuilding plan.

For now, however, the biggest headline remains Akhtar. If he does join the PCB, it would be a notable shift from criticism to responsibility, and a signal that the board wants louder personalities, sharper opinions and stronger accountability inside the room.

One insider summed up the mood as a period of transition rather than a single appointment. The message from the top is clear: Pakistan cricket needs results, and the structure around the team may soon look very different.

What happens next?

The final decision on Akhtar’s role is still awaited, and no official announcement has been made. But the chatter around his possible appointment has already added another layer to Pakistan cricket’s off-field drama.

If the PCB follows through, the move could be one of the most talked-about changes in recent months, not only because of Akhtar’s profile, but because of what he represents: blunt opinions, fast-bowling pedigree and a no-nonsense approach to cricket administration.

For a board under pressure to deliver better results, that may be exactly the kind of shake-up it is looking for.