Shoaib Akhtar in talks with PCB - (Source: AFP)In a significant development, former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar is set for a massive role with the Pakistan Cricket Team. Akhtar, who has been a vocal critic of the PCB, is set to join the national team’s coaching staff.A report from PTI stated that Shoaib Akhtar held a meeting with PCB chief Mohsin Naqvi recently, and the two held discussions regarding a role within the Pakistan team for the 51-year-old. At present, the role isn’t clear, but the report mentioned that Akhtar is in talks for a massive opportunity.“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,” he added.Shoaib Akhtar Reverses Earlier Stance On Joining Pakistan TeamThe development comes as a shock for many cricket fans because Shoaib Akhtar has been a big critic of the PCB and Pakistan cricket team. Interestingly, Akhtar, in the past, remarked on Live TV, that he wouldn’t join PCB because his mother warned him against it."My Mother told me before she passed away that don't ever get into Pakistan politics, and secondly, stay away from the Pakistan Cricket Board," Shoaib Akhtar said on a TV show.Indian Cricket 🏏 @Indiancric1cm Shoaib Akhtar on Pakistan Cricket.🚨 -My mother told me before she passed away, "Don't ever get into Pakistan politics, and secondly, stay away from the Pakistan Cricket Board."😂😂 Sep 7, 2026, 11:09 AM Why did Shoaib Akhtar Reverse His Decision?The report from PTI mentioned that Mohsin Naqvi connected with Shoaib recently when his elder brother passed away. The former Pakistan seamer was touched by Naqvi’s gestures and opened up for a possible role within PCB.Also Read: Zimbabwe Refuses To Set Foot In Pakistan, Ireland Tri Series On Verge Of Cancellation“Few weeks back when Shoaib's elder brother passed away Mohsin Naqvi had interacted with him closely and was there for him. This gesture impressed Shoaib a lot who has been a vocal critic of the PCB and Pakistan cricket in the past in his media appearances,” the source added as reported by News18.PCB Actively Hiring Coaches Amid Massive OverhaulWhile Mohsin Naqvi is in talks with Shoaib Akhtar, reports suggest that the board is also looking to rope in Shaun Tait and Martin Guptill into the coaching setup.A report from GeoNews mentioned that the PCB is interested in bringing in New Zealand great Martin Guptill as fielding coach. The development comes a day after Ashley Noffke left to join the Netherlands as their head coach.At present, Martin Guptill is exploring leagues across the globe, and if he joins the PCB, then it will be his first coaching stint.Besides Martin Guptill, the PCB is also looking to bring back Shaun Tait into the setup as their bowling coach. It is worth noting that the Australian great worked with the Pakistan team from February 2022 to early 2023.Also Read: Mohammad Rizwan Issues Warning To Investigation Agency; Seeks His Phone Back
