‘Babar Azam ko bhi le jaao Inzi bhai’ – Fans react as Inzamam-ul-Haq steps down as Pakistan’s chief selector amidst team’s poor run in ODI World Cup 2023

Former Pakistani cricket legend Inzamam-ul-Haq has shocked the cricketing world with his sudden resignation as Pakistan’s Chief Selector. This abrupt move follows Pakistan’s disappointing run in the ongoing ODI World Cup 2023, where they have suffered four consecutive defeats.

The resignation, while seemingly marking the end of Inzamam’s tenure, also raises questions about the financial implications for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). According to reports, Inzamam could be entitled to a substantial payout of approximately PKR 15 million, equivalent to six months’ worth of his monthly salary, which is set at 2.5 million rupees.

The news of Inzamam’s departure has prompted mixed reactions from fans. While many expressed disappointment, some believe that this change may herald a positive turn in Pakistan’s cricketing fortunes, hoping for better results in the World Cup.

Pakistan’s bad performance in the ODI World Cup 2023

Currently, the Pakistan national team has had a forgettable campaign in the ODI World Cup, managing just two wins out of six matches. Their position at the sixth spot in the points table casts doubt on their chances of advancing to the knockout stage, with qualification now hanging by a thread.

Complicating matters further is Inzamam’s reported connection to “Yazo International Limited,” a company owned by cricket agent Talha Rehmani. This affiliation has raised concerns due to Rehmani representing some of Pakistan’s top cricketers, including Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Shah Afridi. Notably, Rizwan also shares co-ownership in the same company. These entanglements have ignited debates about conflicts of interest within Pakistani cricket.

Inzamam’s resignation comes amid existing tensions between the PCB and players regarding central contracts. In the lead-up to the 2023 World Cup, these tensions escalated, with players contemplating boycotting commercial activities during the tournament and demanding a share of the funds received by the PCB from the international cricket governing body.

Here’s how fans reacted: