Ramiz Raja elected as PCB chairman 'unanimously and unopposed'

Former Pakistan cricketer Ramiz Raja has been elected as Pakistan Cricket Board’s chief unanimously and unopposed. Raja, who was nominated by Prime Minister and PCB’s patron-in-chief in the last week of August, replaces Ehsani Mani, whose three-year term ended on August 25. Mani was earlier in line to be given an extension until 2022, however, he confirmed that he had declined to continue any longer as chairman of the board.

Raja becomes the fourth Pakistan cricketer to head the PCB after Abdul Hafeez Kardar (1972-1977), Javed Burki (1994-1995) and Ijaz Butt (2008-2011). Although, this won’t be his first association with the board, as Raja previously served as PCB CEO from 2003 to 2004.

While addressing the PCB Board of Governors (BoG) following his election, Ramiz Raja said: “I am thankful to all of you for electing me as the PCB Chairman and look forward to working with you to ensure Pakistan Cricket continues to thrive and grow stronger, both on and off-the-field.

Welfare of former players one of my priorities: Ramiz Raja

“One of my key focuses will be to help introduce in the Pakistan men’s cricket team the same culture, mindset, attitude, and approach that once made Pakistan one of the most feared cricket playing nations. As an organization, we all need to get behind the national team and provide them the desired assistance and support so that they can produce that brand of cricket, which the fans also expect from them each time they step onto the field of play.

“Obviously, as a former cricketer, my other priority will be to look into the welfare of our past and present cricketers. The game has and will always be about the cricketers and, as such, they deserve more recognition and respect from their parent institution.”

The now 59-year-old represented Pakistan in 57 Tests and 198 ODIs, scoring 2833 and 5841 runs, respectively, and was a key member of the side in the 80s and early 90s, including the World Cups of 1987 and 1992. The ’92 World Cup triumph remains Pakistan’s only 50-over World Cup win to date. After his retirement, Raja has made name as a successful commentator and television broadcaster.