Ramiz Raja (conceived 14 August 1962). is a previous Pakistani cricketer right now filling in as the 36th Chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. Raja addressed Pakistan (once in a while as chief) during the 1980s and the 1990s. Since resigning from cricket, Ramiz Raja has been a reporter on International cricket matches. Ramiz Raja likewise discusses cricket on his YouTube channel Ramiz Speaks.
The meeting was presided by the PCB Election Commissioner, Mr Justice (retd) Sheikh Azmat Saeed. Raja was nominated for the position by Imran Khan, the patron-in-chief of the board.
The 1992-world cup winner now becomes the fourth international cricketer to head the PCB after Abdul Hafeez Kardar (1972-1977), Javed Burki (1994-1995) and Ijaz Butt (2008-2011).
Addressing the 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”.
“One of my key focuses will be to help introduce in the Pakistan men’s cricket team the same culture, mind-set, attitude and approach that once made Pakistan one of the most feared cricket playing nations. As an organisation, 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 on to 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.”
Ramiz Raja represented Pakistan in 255 international matches, from 1984 to 1997, scoring 8,674 runs. In 2003-04, he had also served as the CEO of the board under the chairmanship of Shahryar Khan. Ramiz Raja played international cricket for 13 years, appearing in 57 Test matches, with a career average of 31.83 and scoring two centuries. In the One Day International arena, Ramiz Raja played 198 matches and scored 9 centuries. Ramiz Raja was a member of the national side that reached the semi finals of the 1987 World Cup. He scored 2 centuries in the 1992 World Cup, which was held in Australia, including a century against New Zealand, who had been undefeated during that period. He was awarded the man of the match for his match winning performance which earned Pakistan a place in the semi-finals of the tournament.
Let’s dive into the details of how Ramiz Raja has been instrumental in reshaping the cricket landscape in Pakistan.
- Improved Governance and Transparency:
One of the immediate changes that Ramiz Raja brought to the PCB was a commitment to transparency and improved governance. He emphasized the need for clear and ethical decision-making processes, which has contributed to a more accountable and trustworthy cricket board. This approach has helped in gaining the confidence of stakeholders, including players, officials, and fans.
- Enhancing Player Welfare:
Ramiz Raja’s experience as a former international cricketer has given him valuable insights into the challenges and needs of Pakistan’s players. Under his leadership, the PCB has introduced measures to enhance player welfare. This includes improved contracts, better healthcare facilities, and a focus on mental health support for players, acknowledging that cricketing success is not just about physical skills but also mental well-being.
- Grassroots Cricket Development:
Recognizing that the future of Pakistan cricket relies on nurturing young talent, Ramiz Raja has prioritized grassroots cricket development. He has initiated programs to identify and groom young cricketers from various regions of Pakistan, ensuring that talent is not confined to major cities alone. This move aims to create a broader pool of talent for the national team.
- Engagement with Former Players:
Ramiz Raja has actively engaged with former players, seeking their input and involvement in various cricketing matters. This approach has not only fostered a sense of unity and continuity in Pakistan cricket but has also tapped into the collective wisdom of those who have worn the national jersey.
- Reviving International Cricket in Pakistan:
Ramiz Raja has been an advocate for the return of international cricket to Pakistan, which has faced challenges due to security concerns in recent years. Under his leadership, Pakistan successfully hosted New Zealand and England for tours, signaling a positive shift in perceptions about Pakistan as a safe cricketing destination.
- Marketing and Commercial Growth:
Understanding the financial aspect of cricket, Ramiz Raja has been proactive in seeking sponsorship deals and improving the PCB’s commercial profile. His efforts to secure partnerships and attract investment are vital for the sustainability and growth of Pakistan cricket.
- Modernizing Infrastructure:
Ramiz Raja has recognized the importance of modernizing cricket infrastructure in Pakistan. Plans for the development and renovation of stadiums and training facilities are underway, ensuring that Pakistan can host international matches at venues equipped with world-class amenities.
In conclusion, Ramiz Raja’s tenure as PCB Chairman has ushered in a new era of optimism and development for Pakistan cricket. His commitment to transparency, player welfare, grassroots development, and the revival of international cricket in Pakistan has had a positive impact on the sport. As cricket fans look ahead to the future, they do so with the hope that under his leadership, Pakistan cricket will continue to flourish on and off the field.
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