PCB Faces Backlash Over Salman Butt's Inclusion: Ramiz Raza Speaks Out

Ramiz Raza criticizes PCB's controversial selection committee picks, notably the inclusion of Salman Butt. He questions the wisdom behind Butt's appointment due to past match-fixing controversies. The PCB's decision sparks debate within the cricket community regarding redemption and second chances for tainted players.

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In a recent turn of events within Pakistan's cricket landscape, Ramiz Raza, the former PCB chairman, vehemently criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). His remarks centered around the contentious appointment of 'tainted' Salman Butt, who joins as a consultant member to chief selector Wahab Riaz. Ramiz Raza didn't mince words, also expressing disapproval of Kamran Akmal's involvement, completing the trio alongside Rao Iftikhar Anjum in the selection committee.

The PCB, on December 1, made an official announcement confirming the entry of these three members into the selection panel, asserting their immediate assumption of responsibilities.

Ramiz Raza's strong sentiments surfaced in his statement to Cricbuzz, where he labeled the committee's composition as absurd. He emphasized the potential conflict of interest and past controversies associated with some members, stating, "It's insane to have a selection committee consisting of a member whose decision can be termed as a display of filial affection or non-affection and another who was locked up for match-fixing."

This outcry isn't isolated; it resonates with Raza's consistent vocal opposition against cricketers entangled in match-fixing allegations or links with bookies. He notably criticized the PCB's decision earlier regarding Mohammed Amir, opposing his reinstatement after a five-year ban.

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The notorious spot-fixing scandal of 2010 involving Amir, Mohammad Asif, and Butt remains a sore point. Butt, then the Test team captain, faced a severe ban from the ICC and served a sentence in the UK.

Despite Butt's significant international career, scoring 5209 runs across formats, his tainted past continues to haunt him. While he resumed domestic cricket post-ban, his return to the national team has been contentious. Some factions in Pakistan cricket argue for his redemption, citing his already-served punishment.