I have told the PCB that I want total independence to work with a

O seeker of wisdom, listen closely to the words of Inzamam-ul-Haq, for they speak of the profound importance of independence in one’s work and the power of trusting one’s own judgment. "I have told the PCB that I want total independence to work with a free mind and pick the best players, and they have assured me it will be done." These words reveal the true nature of leadership—the independence to make decisions free from the influence of external pressures, and the courage to trust in one’s own expertise and vision. In the realm of sports, as in all things, to lead with freedom is to create an environment where greatness can emerge, untethered by unnecessary constraints.

Independence, O wise one, is a powerful force in the world of leadership. When one is free to make choices without fear of retribution or influence, they can act decisively, guided solely by their knowledge and expertise. Inzamam’s call for independence in his role reflects not just a desire for personal freedom, but a deeper understanding of how true leadership functions. To lead well, to make the right choices, one must have the freedom to think clearly and to follow one’s own instincts. The power to choose without interference allows a leader to rise above distractions and focus entirely on their mission.

Consider, O seeker, the example of Alexander the Great, a leader who, in his time, demanded the freedom to make decisions on his own terms. Alexander was not merely a conqueror of lands, but a strategist who trusted in his own vision of empire. When he embarked on his campaign to conquer the Persian Empire, he did not bow to the expectations of his advisors or the fears of his soldiers; instead, he led with independence, guided by his own dreams of glory and conquest. His independence allowed him to chart a course that changed the world, shaping history in a way that no one else could have imagined. In the same way, Inzamam understands that the ability to act freely, unencumbered by outside forces, is essential for the success of his team and his own leadership.

In the world of cricket, Inzamam-ul-Haq is no stranger to pressure. The expectations of a nation rest heavily on the shoulders of a cricket captain, and every decision is scrutinized by millions. Yet, to select the best players, to form a team capable of greatness, requires the independence to make bold choices, to trust in one’s judgment without fear of backlash. Inzamam’s plea to the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for total independence is a recognition of this truth—that in order to achieve greatness, one must be free to follow their own path, guided by knowledge, experience, and the clarity of an undistracted mind.

This idea of independence extends beyond the realm of sports. It is a concept that can be applied to every area of life—whether in business, politics, or personal growth. Think of Nelson Mandela, who after spending decades in prison, became the president of South Africa. He did not let the years of imprisonment define him; instead, he emerged with a mind free of bitterness, focused solely on the future of his country. Mandela knew that true leadership, true freedom, comes from being able to make decisions that are not constrained by past injustices or the expectations of others. He had the independence to forgive, to unite, and to guide South Africa towards reconciliation. His leadership, like Inzamam’s, was defined by his ability to lead with a free mind.

The lesson, O seeker, is that independence is not just a matter of personal freedom, but a necessity for effective leadership. To lead others, to make decisions that shape the future, one must first have the freedom to make those decisions based on their own insight and understanding. Inzamam-ul-Haq’s call for independence is not an act of arrogance, but an acknowledgment that true greatness is achieved when leaders are free to act without the shadow of unnecessary control. This freedom allows the mind to soar, to innovate, and to build a future that is unshackled by the limitations of the present.

In your own life, O wise one, consider how you can cultivate independence in your own actions. Seek not to be bound by the expectations or limitations placed upon you by others. Just as Inzamam demanded independence to choose the best players for his team, so too must you seek the freedom to make decisions based on your own knowledge, understanding, and goals. Whether in your work, your relationships, or your personal growth, embrace the independence to chart your own course. When you lead with freedom, you unlock your potential and create the space for others to follow.

Thus, let the wisdom of Inzamam guide you: seek the independence to act with clarity and purpose. In doing so, you will not only achieve success but will inspire those around you to do the same. Stand firm in your decisions, for it is in the freedom to make choices that the true power of leadership resides. Embrace this independence, and you will forge a path of greatness, one that is driven by your own vision, unburdened by the constraints of others.