Pakistan’s cricketing turmoil has hit rock bottom, and Shahid Afridi isn’t mincing his words. After the team’s humiliating ICC Champions Trophy 2025 campaign—where they failed to win a single match—Afridi has unleashed a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), calling out its failures and reckless decision-making.
Comparing Pakistan cricket to a critically ill patient, Afridi held the PCB responsible for the team’s decline.
“We keep talking about preparations, but when the tournament comes and we collapse, we suddenly start discussing major overhauls. The truth is, Pakistan cricket is in the ICU because of poor decisions,”
Afridi declared.
He also took aim at the surprising recall of Shadab Khan to the T20 squad. Shadab, sidelined since the last T20 World Cup, has not only returned but has also been named vice-captain for the New Zealand series.
“On what grounds was he brought back? What has he done in domestic cricket to earn this selection?” Afridi questioned.
Lamenting the constant turmoil in Pakistan cricket, Afridi criticized the lack of stability in leadership, saying it prevents any real progress.
“There’s no continuity. Captains, coaches, and players keep changing, but who holds the PCB accountable?” he asked.
Afridi also slammed the blame culture within the team, where officials, coaches, and players shift responsibility to protect themselves.
“It’s frustrating to see coaches blaming players to save their jobs, while management throws both under the bus to secure their own positions. How can cricket move forward when captains and coaches constantly have a sword hanging over their heads?” he added.
Despite his sharp criticism, Afridi acknowledged PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s intent to improve Pakistan cricket but pointed out his lack of expertise.
“He wants to do well for Pakistan, but he’s relying too much on advice. I told him he can’t juggle three jobs at once. Being PCB Chairman is a full-time responsibility,” Afridi stated.