In a scathing critique, former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has lambasted the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its latest selections, stating that Pakistan cricket is within the “ICU” as a result of a collection of incorrect selections. His feedback come within the wake of all-rounder Shadab Khan’s shock recall to the T20I squad for the upcoming collection towards New Zealand. Afridi’s remarks spotlight the deep-seated points inside Pakistan cricket, together with an absence of continuity, accountability and a pervasive blame tradition.
Critique of Shadab Khan’s recall
Afridi’s criticism centres on the collection of Shadab, who was out of favour because the final T20 World Cup. Shadab has been named vice-captain beneath Salman Agha for the New Zealand tour, a choice that has left Afridi perplexed. “On what foundation has he been recalled? What are his performances in home cricket or in any other case that he has been picked once more?” Afridi questioned throughout a media interplay.
Shadab’s latest type has been underwhelming, with him scoring simply 44 runs and failing to take any wickets in 4 innings throughout the T20 World Cup 2024. In his final 10 home matches, he managed solely two half-centuries and took 5 wickets4. Afridi’s skepticism about Shadab’s choice underscores considerations concerning the PCB’s decision-making course of.
Lack of continuity and accountability
Afridi emphasised the absence of continuity and accountability inside the PCB. He famous that frequent adjustments in captains, coaches, and gamers have destabilized the workforce, resulting in poor performances.
“On a regular basis we discuss preparations and when an occasion comes and we flop then we discuss surgical procedure. Reality is Pakistan cricket is in ICU due to incorrect selections,” Afridi lamented.
“There isn’t a continuity or consistency within the Board’s selections and insurance policies. We maintain altering captains, coaches, or some gamers, however in the long run, what’s the accountability for Board officers?”
This lack of stability is compounded by a blame tradition the place coaches and administration usually deflect criticism onto gamers to save lots of their jobs. Afridi described this as damaging to the morale of gamers and workers, stating, “How can our cricket progress when there’s a sword hanging always over the captain and coaches’ heads?”
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Impression on Pakistan cricket
Afridi’s remarks replicate a broader concern concerning the state of Pakistan cricket. The workforce has confronted important challenges lately, together with inconsistent performances and management adjustments. The recall of Shadab, regardless of his latest type, has raised questions concerning the PCB’s choice standards and its means to make selections primarily based on benefit reasonably than favouritism.
As Pakistan prepares for its collection towards New Zealand, the workforce faces not solely exterior challenges but additionally inside strife. Afridi’s feedback function a wake-up name for the PCB to reassess its methods and give attention to constructing a steady and aggressive workforce.