Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi expressed strong criticism regarding the current state of Pakistan's cricketing framework, likening it to a critically ill patient. His comments followed Pakistan's disappointing exit from the Champions Trophy, where they failed to secure a victory, suffering losses to their traditional rivals India and New Zealand, while their match against Bangladesh was abandoned due to rain in Rawalpindi.

"We frequently discuss the need for better preparations, yet when the time comes for a major event and we underperform, we resort to talking about drastic measures. The reality is that Pakistan cricket is in a critical condition due to poor decision-making," Afridi stated, as reported by PTI.

Afridi further scrutinized the decision to reinstate all-rounder Shadab Khan into the national T20 team, raising concerns about the selection criteria and highlighting the systemic issues affecting Pakistan cricket.

Shadab, who had fallen out of favour since the previous T20 World Cup, has not only been brought back into the squad but has also been named vice-captain for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand. Nevertheless, Afridi remains sceptical about this decision.

"On what grounds has he been brought back? What have his performances in domestic cricket or elsewhere been that justify his selection?" Afridi questioned during a media briefing.

Lack of continuity

Afridi asserts that the challenges faced by Pakistan's cricket are primarily due to a lack of continuity and consistency in decision-making processes. He expressed concern over the frequent changes in leadership, both on the field and within the administration, contending that such instability hinders long-term development.

“There is a notable absence of continuity and consistency in the decisions and policies of the board. We frequently alter captains, coaches, and players, yet what accountability exists for the officials of the Board?” he inquired.

He further criticized the tendency within Pakistan cricket to engage in a blame game, where coaches, players, and officials continuously shift responsibility onto one another.

“It is disheartening to witness coaches blaming players to protect their positions, while management shifts blame onto players and coaches to maintain their roles. How can our cricket advance when there is a constant threat looming over the heads of the captain and coaches?” he stated.

Despite his criticisms, Afridi recognized that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has positive intentions but lacks comprehensive cricketing expertise.

“He aims to achieve success for Pakistan, but ultimately, he relies on external advice. I have advised him that he cannot effectively manage three roles simultaneously. He must concentrate on one position, as being the PCB Chairman demands full-time commitment,” Afridi concluded.

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