Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar could be handed a key role in the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as the board looks to make changes to its cricket setup following the team’s poor tour of England.

According to a PTI source close to the PCB, Akhtar met PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi in Islamabad last week, with the two discussing several issues related to Pakistan cricket.

Shoaib Akhtar’s meeting with Mohsin Naqvi

The source claimed that Akhtar and Naqvi have developed a good relationship in recent months.

“A few weeks back, when Shoaib’s elder brother passed away, Mohsin Naqvi had interacted with him closely and was there for him,” the source said, as quoted by PTI.

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According to the source, the gesture left a positive impression on Akhtar, who has previously been vocal about his criticism of the PCB and the state of Pakistan cricket during his media appearances.

The source further claimed that Naqvi has since shared his plans for Pakistan cricket with Akhtar and invited him to visit the National Cricket Academy (NCA) and the team’s training camps.

Akhtar could get major PCB position

The source said Akhtar is being considered for a major position within the PCB, although the former fast bowler also put forward his own ideas during the meeting.

“Shoaib is in line to get a major posting, but obviously when he met with the chairman he had his own set of ideas and conditions through which he believes Pakistan cricket can be taken forward,” the source said as quoted by PTI.

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There has been no official confirmation from the PCB regarding Akhtar’s reported appointment.

PCB also considering foreign coaches

Akhtar is not the only change being discussed by the board. The PCB is reportedly considering bringing in foreign coaches and consultants for the national teams. This comes after changes to the coaching staff, with Shane McDermott and Ashley Noffke leaving their respective roles.

The board is also looking at appointing a permanent long-term head coach for the Pakistan women’s team.

According to the source, the PCB wants to strengthen its overall cricket structure, including the senior men’s and women’s teams, Shaheens and junior sides.

“The board is working on some plans for the future and there will be some changes in the cricket think tank soon because the chairman has made it clear that he expects better results from the national men’s, women’s, Shaheens and junior teams,” the source said.

Pakistan’s England tour triggers PCB changes

Pakistan’s recent England tour has added pressure on the board to make changes. The team suffered heavy defeats in the Test series, with England taking the series 2-0 after the first two matches.

The PCB subsequently made major changes to the squad and coaching setup ahead of the third Test, sending seven players home and making changes to the coaching staff.

The reported plans for a wider overhaul could now see further changes within Pakistan cricket’s decision-making structure, with Akhtar potentially becoming part of the new setup.