Lahore, September 5, 2026: Former Pakistan cricketer Aaqib Javed will continue to serve as the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) Director of High Performance despite mounting criticism following the national team’s heavy defeats in the first two Tests of the ongoing away series against England.
Javed, who represented Pakistan in 22 Tests and 163 ODIs during his international career, was appointed Director of High Performance in May 2025, replacing former national cricketer Nadeem Khan.
The former fast bowler, who is also a member of the national men’s team selection committee, has faced increasing scrutiny over his role following Pakistan’s back-to-back defeats in England. The results have raised questions over both his position as Director of High Performance and his involvement in selection matters.
Javed recently travelled briefly to the United Kingdom, where he attended a luncheon hosted by King Charles III for the Pakistan men’s cricket team on Wednesday. He has since returned to Lahore.
The 54-year-old has come under further criticism following the PCB’s decision to leave seven players, along with head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul, out of the squad for the third and final Test against England, scheduled to be played at Edgbaston, Birmingham, from September 9 to 13.
However, a highly credible PCB source has confirmed that Javed remains in his position and continues to play an important role in key cricketing decisions. The source said he was also carrying out all responsibilities assigned to him by the board.
Javed has also submitted his response to the PCB’s explanation sought from the selection committee regarding the inclusion of wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan in the Pakistan squad for the away Test series against the West Indies and left-handed opener Imam-ul-Haq for the England series.
His continued presence in the PCB’s high-performance and selection structures indicates that the board has retained confidence in his role despite the growing criticism surrounding Pakistan’s recent Test performances and selection decisions.
