PCB, PSL under fire after ex-Pakistan captain Misbah ul Haq's role comes to light

Karachi: The Pakistan Cricket Board is confronting a growing credibility crisis after it emerged that former national captain Misbah-ul-Haq is advising Peshawar Zalmi during the ongoing Pakistan Super League while simultaneously drawing a salary as a PCB national selector and batting consultant.

The disclosure, first reported by the Press Trust of India, has reopened a debate the PCB thought it had settled when it blocked Sarfaraz Ahmed and Wahab Riaz from accepting similar franchise roles last year on conflict-of-interest grounds. Critics now accuse the board of selective enforcement, allowing one of its highest-profile employees to bypass regulations that apply to others.

Misbah confirmed his Zalmi consultancy, saying he signed the agreement before rejoining the PCB setup. “I only work for them as consultant on given days in a season,” he told reporters, insisting the arrangement does not clash with his national duties. Asked why his case differs from those of Sarfaraz and Wahab, he replied, “The PCB should clarify,” arguing that his situation is “different.”

Board officials have so far offered no public explanation, leaving players and fans to question whether policy is being applied uniformly. The PCB’s own code states that employees must steer clear of commercial links to PSL franchises to avoid compromising their impartiality.

Misbah, however, believes proximity to players during the tournament aids his selector role. “When you watch and observe them up close and see how they react to a particular situation it becomes easier for you to take decisions as a national selector,” he said.

With the playoffs approaching, the PCB faces mounting pressure to clarify its stance and reassure stakeholders that governance standards are not being bent for senior figures.