PCB’s axe likely to fall on Mickey Arthur after World Cup failure

Apart from Arthur, head coach Grant Bradburn and batting coach Andrew Puttick are also likely to be sacked.

According to sources, the PCB is keen on appointing local coaches for the national side.

PCB Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf will meet captain Babar Azam and other members of the team management in the next couple of days before leaving for India, where he will attend an ICC meeting, on November 17.

Ashraf will discuss Pakistan’s performance during the Asia Cup and World Cup with Azam and the team management.

The 1992 champions failed to make the semi-finals of the show-piece event in India, finishing their campaign with their fifth defeat in nine matches against holders England on Saturday.

Azam is considering relinquishing the captaincy, specifically stepping down from leadership in white-ball cricket.

As per sources, the 29-year-old has been seeking guidance on his future, consulting with former PCB chairman Ramiz Raja and people close to him.

During the training at Kolkata’s Eden Gardens on Friday, Azam sought advice from Ramiz Raja.

The decision on whether to continue as captain will be influenced by consultations upon his return to the country. In the current circumstances, Azam values the advice he receives, particularly from his father.

Expressing disappointment with the conduct of the PCB and former cricketers, Azam has received counsel from those close to him advising him to step down from leadership in all three formats.

Sources further added that the suggestion is based on the belief that prominent captains have faced challenges in Test series in Australia. Consequently, individuals in Azam’s inner circle have recommended he step down from captaincy roles in both red and white-ball cricket.