Aleem Dar Resigns After Pakistan’s T20 World Cup Exit

News Desk 

Islamabad: A senior member of Pakistan’s national selection committee, Aleem Dar, has resigned following the team’s disappointing exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup, sources confirmed on Tuesday.

Pakistan endured one of its worst-ever Super Four campaigns in the tournament’s history, triggering widespread criticism over team selection and strategy.

According to highly placed sources, Dar stepped down in protest over what he described as “extraordinary interference” in selection matters by head coach Mike Hesson and the silence of influential selection committee member Aaqib Javed.

Sources said Dar maintained that the selectors had initially finalized a list of Pakistan’s best 20 players. However, he alleged that the final 15-member squad and subsequent playing XI were chosen by the captain and coach, leaving the selection committee to face public criticism for decisions they did not fully control.

During the tournament, Dar had reportedly raised concerns over the inclusion of former captain Babar Azam and all-rounder Shadab Khan, citing their recent lack of form. He also questioned the appointment of captain Salman Ali Agha, claiming he did not merit a place in the squad in a leadership role.

Dar further proposed that experienced wicketkeeper-batter Mohammad Rizwan be considered for a middle-order role at number six instead of Usman Khan. According to sources, Dar argued that if underperforming players were being retained, Rizwan also deserved another opportunity in the XI.

Insiders said Dar viewed his resignation as a matter of principle, believing that his long-standing reputation in cricket should not be compromised. He reportedly felt it was better to step aside than continue in a role where he perceived himself as having limited authority.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has yet to issue an official statement regarding his resignation.