Moin may replace Akram as captain (30 July 1999)

30 July 1999

Moin may replace Akram as captain

The Dawn

Karachi, July 29: The ad hoc committee has decided to replace Wasim Akram as captain even if he wins his battle to prove innocence in the match-fixing and betting saga, well placed sources said.

Sources, requesting anonymity, said former captain Moin Khan will take over as captain.

Moin captained Pakistan in one Test last year at Lahore against Zimbabwe. He also captained Pakistan in the 1995 Asia Cup at Sharjah. He was Wasim Akram's deputy in the recent World Cup.

Mujeeb-ur-Rahman, ad hoc committee chairman, told newsmen that he has made up his mind who will replace Wasim Akram but refused to disclose the name.

"I believe in continuity and that's precisely why I appointed Yawar Saeed as manager for four years. I don't know if my policy would be followed by my successors but I believe that's the right thing," he added.

Sources said Moin earned the ad hoc committee chairman's nod after gathering information from his team-mates. "Moin is a popular player of the team. Every member likes him and there's no denying the fact that he is a fighter and has a good head on his shoulders."

Sources added that Wasim Akram has been informed of the decision and the Test allrounder has promised to first clear his name and then extend full support to the wicket-keeper.

Mujeeb said the name of the captain for the Canadian trip would be announced next week.

In another development, the ad hoc committee has approached Wasim Hasan Raja to take over as cricket manager. In addition to this, the committee has also contacted Australian Cricket Board (ACB) to recommend a good coach.

"There are a couple of names that can be seriously considered. But the ad hoc committee is firm on the point of appointing a foreign coach because they are more professional and dedicated than the others," sources remarked.

The ad hoc committee is also expected to offer a fresh contract to the England-born South African Richard Pybus. "He will be reappointed as a trainer."

Source :: The Dawn(www.dawn.com)