Misbah-ul-Haq Tipped for Key PCB Appointment

In a major development that could reshape Pakistan’s cricketing administration, former national captain Misbah-ul-Haq is being tipped for a high-profile appointment within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB).

Sources close to the matter suggest Misbah is emerging as the frontrunner for the role of Director Cricket Operations (International), a position that has recently come under the spotlight.

Just days ago, the PCB publicly advertised the vacancy, marking a notable shift in its recruitment strategy. For the first time, the board has made it mandatory for applicants to be former international cricketers, either Test or ODI, signaling a clear intent to bring cricketing experience into the boardroom.

The vacancy arose following the temporary suspension of Usman Wahla, who previously held the position. Wahla was sidelined after reportedly mishandling a sensitive situation involving Pakistan-India cricket relations — a situation that required diplomatic finesse and strategic clarity. Though later reinstated, the incident appears to have prompted the PCB to rethink its leadership approach in this critical domain.

Misbah-ul-Haq, known for his calm demeanor and tactical acumen, is no stranger to PCB’s inner workings. His previous stints as head coach and chief selector give him a unique blend of administrative and on-ground experience, a combination the PCB may find invaluable as it navigates complex international cricketing landscapes.

He was reportedly even in the running to be the team’s next test coach before the position went to Azhar Mahmood.

If appointed, Misbah’s return to the PCB setup could be a game-changer, especially with Pakistan’s international calendar heating up and diplomatic sensitivities around regional cricket intensifying.

Bringing in a seasoned cricketer like Misbah to oversee international operations could help bridge the gap between the dressing room and the boardroom. It also reflects a broader trend within the PCB to professionalize its structure and ensure that key roles are filled by individuals who understand the game beyond the scorecards and spreadsheets.