Pakistan Cricket in ICU! Shahid Afridi Slams PCB For Poor Decisions

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has slammed the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for recalling all-rounder Shadab Khan to the T20 squad, declaring that the sport in the country is “in the ICU” due to persistent “incorrect decisions.” Shadab, sidelined since the last T20 World Cup, was recently named vice-captain to Salman Ali Agha for the upcoming T20 series against New Zealand, a move Afridi sharply criticized.

“On what basis has he been picked? What has he done in domestic cricket or elsewhere to justify this recall?” Afridi questioned during a media interaction. The outspoken ex-all-rounder stressed that without merit-based selections, Pakistan cricket’s fortunes won’t improve. “We focus on preparations, but when we flop in tournaments, it’s all about ‘surgery.’ The truth is, our cricket is in intensive care because of bad calls,” he said.

Afridi pointed to a lack of continuity in PCB policies, noting that each new chairman overhauls everything. “There’s no consistency—captains, coaches, and players keep changing, but who holds the Board accountable?” he asked. He lamented the instability, saying a “sword constantly hangs over captains and coaches,” while coaches blame players and management deflects responsibility to protect their positions.

He also took aim at PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, calling him a “positive person” with good intentions but lacking cricket expertise. “He wants to uplift Pakistan cricket, but he relies on advice. I told him he can’t juggle three jobs—PCB Chairman is a full-time role,” Afridi said, referring to Naqvi’s additional duties as Interior Minister. With Pakistan’s cricketing struggles laid bare after recent tournament exits, Afridi’s critique underscores a deeper crisis, urging a rethink of leadership and decision-making to revive the game’s health in the country.