Shahid Afridi criticizes PCB leadership changes attributing the team’s poor performance, emphasizing that the constant shifts in management have undermined Pakistan’s cricket performance. In a recent interview,Shahid Afridi pointed out that frequent changes in the PCB’s leadership structure are a major factor behind the team’s disappointing results. He stressed that stability and a long-term plan are essential for the team to achieve consistent success. Shahid Afridi’s comments come in the wake of Pakistan’s early exit from the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024, which many attribute to the ongoing administrative instability within the PCB.
Shahid Afridi underscored the importance of allowing any new system or leadership to settle in for at least three years. “When implementing a new structure or leadership, it’s crucial to give it adequate time to take effect. The frequent changes in chairman and system are counterproductive,” Shahid Afridi remarked. He stressed that a consistent approach, with senior board members and players collaborating on a well-thought-out plan, is essential for achieving results. “If we continue to alter the system every year, it’s unrealistic to expect substantial results,” he added.
Pakistan’s recent performance in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2024 has been disappointing, with the team suffering defeats against the United States and India in their first two matches, resulting in an early exit from the group stage. This early elimination marks the first time in T20 World Cup history that Pakistan has failed to advance beyond the first round.
The team’s poor showing has led to criticism from fans and former players, many of whom have blamed Captain Babar Azam and called for his resignation. In response to the team’s exit, the PCB has made several changes to its support staff, including the dismissal of selectors Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq, and is currently deliberating on Babar Azam’s future as captain.
The PCB has experienced a rapid turnover in its leadership in recent years. Ramiz Raja served as chairman in 2022, only to be succeeded by Najam Sethi later that year. Zaka Ashraf took over fromNajam Sethi in mid-2023, but was replaced by Mohsin Naqvi in February 2024. After a brief tenure, Mohsin Naqvi removed Shaheen Afridi as T20I captain, reinstating Babar Azam in the role.
As the PCB continues to grapple with leadership changes and team performance issues,Shahid Afridi’s call for stability and long-term planning remains a crucial point of discussion for the future of Pakistani Cricket.
