Dr. Sohail Saleem, the head of Pakistan Cricket Board’s medical department, tendered his resignation following revelations of negligence in the treatment of Pakistan fast bowler Ihsanullah’s elbow injury. The resignation came after a medical committee formed by the PCB exposed significant loopholes in the handling of the injury.
According to a news release issued by the PCB, Saleem’s resignation was accepted by PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. This marks the second time Saleem has resigned from this position, with his previous resignation in 2021 attributed to dissatisfaction with arrangements made during PSL 6.
The independent medical committee, comprising Prof. Rana Dilawaiz Nadeem, Dr. Mumraiz Naqshband, and Prof. Javed Akram, submitted its detailed report to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The report highlighted delays in diagnosis, inappropriate treatment, and non-compliance by Ihsanullah with the prescribed rehabilitation plan.
In addition to recommendations for Ihsanullah’s treatment, the committee also reviewed cases of other cricketers, including Arshad Iqbal, Zeeshan Zameer, and women cricketer Shawal Zulfikar. Recommendations include a two-month rehabilitation program for Arshad and an examination by a foot and ankle specialist for Zeeshan.
Hailing from Swat, 21-year-old Ihsanullah impressed with his pace and accuracy in the 2022 and 2023 PSL editions. The right-armer was picked for Pakistan’s T20 International series against New Zealand and Afghanistan in March-April 2023, claiming six wickets in four T20 Internationals so far.
