Former all-rounder Abdul Razzaq was notably absent from the Pakistan Champions’ lineup in the World Championship of Legends (WCL) final against India in Birmingham on Saturday. However, the greater concern for Razzaq lies in his recent removal from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) selection panel, a decision that continues to bother him.
Razzaq, along with former teammate Wahab Riaz, was dismissed from the PCB selection committee following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup. Under Babar Azam’s leadership, the team failed to advance beyond the group stage, suffering defeats to both India and the USA.
In a talk show appearance on Pakistani television, Abdul Razzaq, speaking from Birmingham, humorously addressed his removal when asked about PCB support or incentives for the team. Former Pakistan pacer Sikander Bakht inquired if any prize money had been promised by the PCB for a victory against India. Razzaq’s response, “Letter aaya hai termination ka” (received a termination letter), drew laughter from the panel and social media alike, as a clip of the exchange was shared on ‘X’.
Legends Trophy in England , Pakistan India playing today the finals , Abdul Razakh’s funny reply about PCB 😅 @TheRealPCB @TheRealPCBMedia @TheRealPCB_Live @MohsinnaqviC42 #PakistanCricket pic.twitter.com/MsOl3BqBry
— Sikander Bakht (@Sikanderbakhts) July 13, 2024
Following his dismissal, Razzaq defended himself and Riaz against allegations of favoritism, asserting that team selections for the T20 World Cup were a collective decision. “How can I sway the other selectors while selecting the team?” he questioned.
In the WCL final, India emerged victorious, defeating Pakistan Champions by five wickets. Led by Yuvraj Singh, India chased down a target of 157 runs in 19.1 overs. Key performances included a swift half-century from Ambati Rayudu (50), and significant contributions from Yusuf Pathan (30*) and Gurkeerat Singh Mann (34).
