Najam Sethi, the chairman of the Interim Management Committee of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), has announced his decision to withdraw from the race for the next board chairman. Sethi, who had been leading the interim committee since December last year, had been widely speculated to be the Prime Minister’s choice for the position. However, he surprised many by stepping down, paving the way for the possible return of Zaka Ashraf, a former board chairman. Sethi’s withdrawal has highlighted the political complexities surrounding the appointment and raised questions about stability within the PCB.
Sethi’s Tenure and Completion of Electoral Process
Najam Sethi had been leading the Interim Management Committee of the PCB since December, with the mandate to conduct elections across the PCB’s affiliated districts to form the Board of Governors (BoG). The committee’s task is now nearly complete, with only two nominations awaited from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is also the PCB’s patron-in-chief. The completion of the electoral process will establish a 10-member BoG.
Until late Monday night, it was widely expected that Sethi would continue as the chairman of the PCB after the interim setup concluded. However, speculation had been growing about the potential return of Zaka Ashraf. Sethi’s withdrawal came as a surprise, as he cited the desire to avoid becoming a “bone of contention” between Asif Zardari and Shehbaz Sharif. Sethi emphasized the need for stability within the PCB and expressed his reluctance to be considered for chairmanship.
Sethi’s tweet alluded to the political horsetrading surrounding the appointment of the PCB chairman. Shehbaz Sharif, the current Prime Minister of Pakistan and PCB patron, traditionally appoints the chairman, usually from his own party, Pakistan Muslim League – Nawaz (PML-N). However, the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), a prominent coalition partner in the government, asserted its right to nominate a candidate of their choosing due to its control over Pakistan sports. The ongoing power dynamics between the two parties have contributed to the uncertainty surrounding the chairman’s appointment.
Zaka Ashraf, a former PCB chairman, is believed to be the PPP’s preferred candidate for the post. Although his return is not yet official, he is the overwhelming favourite to be elected as the chairman. This potential development marks the end of a prolonged tussle between Ashraf and Sethi that occurred between 2013 and 2014. During that period, the chairmanship changed hands multiple times due to a protracted legal battle. Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif eventually removed Ashraf and brought in Sethi. However, after intense mediation, Sethi has now made way for Ashraf once again.
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Sethi’s Interim Role and Future Challenges
During his interim tenure, Sethi oversaw significant changes within the PCB. His committee was tasked with reinstating the board’s 2014 constitution, which included the revival of the regional and department structure in domestic cricket. Sethi’s management committee also played a key role in hiring an overseas coaching staff for Pakistan, including the appointment of Mickey Arthur as part-time director of cricket. One of the pressing issues for Sethi’s successor will be navigating Pakistan’s potential participation in the Asia Cup and the World Cup, especially considering the political dynamics surrounding the events.
Najam Sethi’s decision to withdraw from the race for PCB chairman has added a new twist to the process of appointing the board’s leader. His unexpected move has underscored the complex political dynamics and power struggles involved. The possible return of Zaka Ashraf, along with the completion of the electoral process, will shape the future direction of the PCB. As Pakistan cricket faces various challenges, including international competitions and the need for stability, the selection of the next chairman will be crucial for the board’s progress and success.
