The vast majority of fans on this forum probably believe that Inzamam ul Haq is unqualified for his position. That being a great batsman does not make qualified to be a selector. They would be right. The bigger issue is that the next Chief Selector will be as bad if not worse than Inzamam. Why? Because the institution of selection is archaic and non-functional. It is a job with a basic description offered to a select few with a myriad of problems.
One, the job of a selector is not to select a squad of players for a specific format or a tour. The job of Chief Selector is to first build the organizational capacity of the Front Office and the Sporting Structure. His job is to identify a group of scouts, analytics professionals, engineers, and programmers to build traditional scouting infrastructure and objective scouting infrastructure. Furthermore his job is to align that structure so it becomes functional.
Two, the job of a chief selector is to establish and identify a method of playing cricket in each form of the game. At least at the International Level that style and method should be the same from the International Team throughout the Age Groups. Based on that style and method, a Chief Selector should hire a Head Coach and Coaches underneath that structure. He should also appoint the captain. Finally, a Chief Selector should have Profiles of Every Position in Every Format. For example, what are the qualities and attributes of a T20 Opener?
Three, the job of a chief selector is to know every player in the country. He should have detailed Scouting Reports about every player. Because a Selector can't be everywhere he should have access to video of every player in Pakistan. Videos that illustrate the player at his best and at his worst.
Four, the job of a chief selector is to organize this talent. Every player should be integrated in a Depth Chart. His position and standing should be discussed internally amongst the brains trust. The Selector, the Coach, and the Captain. Furthermore, each players standing should be discussed with the player, his domestic coach, and his agent. The Chief Selector should facilitate a pathway to improvement and the National Team.
Five,the job of a Chief Selector is not to pick a squad 15 players. The job of chief selector is to BUILD A TEAM. These are two completely different ideas with contrasting outcomes.
Six, the job of a Chief Selector is to balance the need to win today with the need to win tomorrow. Meaning a chief selector must create and then balance short and long term goals. Succession Planning is a big part of his job.
The idea of a Chief Selector is ridiculous. In modern sports we have General Manager's, Directors of Football, and President's of Sports.. Operations. In Cricket we have selectors. In a professional environment, a selector is akin to a CEO for the Sporting Structure. His job is immense and time consuming.
