Its been some time now since the debacle in the world cup, Woolmers death and the media circus surrounding it has all amounted to a big nothing in the end and a slap in the face for the vicious target journalism exercised on team Pakistan. It is of no small concern that the world media and a lot of fans including me suddenly start having conspiracy dreams every time Pakistan go awry. Perhaps it is the fact that so much is hidden here, so muchmurkiness that it gives rise to all sorts of misgivings.

Monsoon season is here these days and for the last fortnight, following a crazy sand storm it has been raining cats and dogs. In fact most of you would feel at home in Karachi at the moment in dark damp conditions as they are. On the cricket front things have been very very dull. The series with new Captain Shoaib Malik at the helm against Sri lanka turned out to be a rather tame affair with most of the top Lankan players opting out after such a hectic world cup. Yes Pakistan did win but there was no thrill in it, and there will not be for a time as most of the fans will need a lot of cajoling before they set their hearts behind this team again. Inzimam has all but faded into mediocrity, that great abyss where great players go after the shining light in their life's the sport they excel in is extinguished. It was a sad end to the big guys career, a stunning batsmen to watch in full flow on any sort of pitch he was. A man solid of character as well, spending time these days in his home town Multan building a hospital there for the community present. Says a lot does it not?

Last week the PCB invited or contacted several foreign coaches to replace the slot left open by Woolmers tragic passing. Among them were Australian bowler Lawson, Tim Boon and surprise surprise Dav Whatmore who i do not think is a big fan favorite in Bangladesh right now. You see we all think who in the world would want to coach Pakistan, but when a good coach sees the talent here, it is a very tempting offer to take this giant by its ears and shake it awake. As of now Whatmore has been unofficially selected for this role. The first thing he needs to do IMO is to bring the players together, first the captaincy going to such a junior in experience to Moyo, Malik and then the vice captaincy to Salman Butt has raised a few old stinkers in the dressing room and players are not happy right now. I do feel however that this is the right move, as young blood is the only way forward for this team. Pakistan does not need a 5 year plan it needs a 15 year one.. in which they can start at the roots and build their team up slowly to retain the dominance they once had. Moyo although a terrific batsmen is not going to be here in say 8 years, so what is the point of him being captain? We cannot dream of achieving success like Australia without laying the ground base first. This cannot be achieved in 2 years.

The board also has to change, this adhocism that prevails in PCB which has no check over decisions made or money spent cannot prevail if we are to move forward. It is a welcome move by Mr Naseem Ashraf that a proper charter is being written for this sports body and rules formulated for everything from selection to criteria for dismissal. Performance related contracts are another blessing that has rained down on us with the water from the sky, gone are the days when a player will be able to ferment in the team lineup without giving credible cause for his place. Last but not the least, these new rules should include instant life time bans for players who take drugs or any other enhancers or indulge in any sort of nefarious activity. We are the dregs of the sea as it is right now, and enough is enough.

What ever happens to this team, and to its massive fan following i can promise one thing, there will be lots of fireworks in the near future as young blood pumps through the veins and a coach known for his aggressive strategies takes the helm. The Green giant will awaken.. you just watch.

__________________