Misbah leads race for PCB’s international cricket director post
Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq has emerged as the leading candidate for one of the most pivotal roles in the Pakistan Cricket Board — Director of International Cricket. According to multiple reports, the PCB is considering Misbah for the post as it looks to revamp its international cricket operations following a turbulent period both on and off the field.
The PCB recently advertised the role, requiring applicants to be former international cricketers. The eligibility criteria — which mandates experience in either Test or ODI cricket — signals the board’s intent to bring cricketing pedigree into its strategic leadership. The deadline for applications was officially set for November 2 at 5 p.m.
The news of the job opening was also shared by senior sports journalist Salim Khaliq on X (formerly Twitter), adding momentum to the speculation surrounding Misbah’s return to a senior administrative role.
The PCB has issued an advertisement to appoint a cricketer as Director of International Cricket. Two of the mentors who were not removed are still receiving salaries, and one of them is Misbah-ul-Haq. It is possible that he might take up this position
— Saleem Khaliq (@saleemkhaliq) October 19, 2025
Vacancy follows Wahla’s exit amid Asia Cup controversy
The position opened following the exit of Usman Wahla, who was temporarily suspended over his handling of a diplomatic incident involving match referee Andy Pycroft during the Asia Cup. Wahla was later reinstated but is expected to be moved to another role. The episode — where Pakistani captain Salman Agha was reportedly instructed not to shake hands with India’s Suryakumar Yadav — drew scrutiny and highlighted a need for diplomatic agility in PCB’s leadership ranks.
“PCB has placed an ad on its website for the Director of International Cricket to deal with Asia Cup-like fiascos better in the future. They want a former cricketer with strong international rapport and understanding of cricket administration,” a source told Telecom Asia Sport
This strategic pivot reflects the board’s effort to avoid similar public controversies and manage its external relations with greater professionalism, particularly in increasingly sensitive geopolitical matchups.
Misbah’s credentials align with PCB’s strategic goals
Misbah-ul-Haq appears to be a natural fit. Known for his calm presence and deep understanding of the game, Misbah previously held dual roles as Pakistan’s head coach and chief selector, giving him both on-field credibility and off-field administrative experience. He was even previously considered for a return as Test coach before the role went to Azhar Mahmood.
His appointment would come at a time when the PCB is preparing for high-level engagements with the International Cricket Council (ICC). The upcoming ICC Board meeting in Dubai (November 4–7) is expected to include contentious discussions between Pakistan and India, including over the Asia Cup prize presentation, where Indian players reportedly declined to receive the trophy from PCB Chairman and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi.
With Pakistan’s cricket diplomacy under scrutiny and regional tensions rising — particularly with India and Afghanistan — bringing in a composed, experienced figure like Misbah is seen as a stabilizing move.
A crucial role in Pakistan cricket’s evolving landscape
The role of Director of International Cricket is not only administrative but increasingly diplomatic. From scheduling bilateral series and managing ICC relations to handling sensitive issues like player protocols and match official disputes, the position demands both cricketing acumen and strategic insight.
By prioritizing former players with leadership experience, the PCB hopes to realign its global image and re-establish credibility on the international stage. If Misbah’s appointment is confirmed, it would mark a significant moment in Pakistan’s cricket governance — potentially bridging the long-standing gap between players and administrators, and guiding the team through a politically charged international calendar.
