“Pakistan Cricket Is In ICU Because…”: Shahid Afridi Makes Bold Remarks Against PAK Players And PCB

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has launched a scathing critique of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), stating that Pakistan cricket is currently in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) due to a series of poor decisions, inconsistent policies, and a lack of accountability. His remarks come in the wake of all-rounder Shadab Khan’s surprise recall to the T20I squad for the upcoming series against New Zealand, a move that Afridi believes exemplifies the flawed selection process and lack of meritocracy in Pakistan cricket.

Afridi’s comments reflect deep-seated concerns regarding the frequent changes in leadership, the blame culture within the PCB, and the team’s declining performances on the international stage. His remarks serve as a wake-up call for the PCB to reassess its selection strategies and long-term vision for Pakistan cricket.

Shadab Khan’s Surprise Recall: Afridi Questions PCB’s Selection Process

One of the central points of Afridi’s criticism is the recall of all-rounder Shadab Khan, who has been named vice-captain under Agha Salman for the T20I series against New Zealand. Shadab, who was out of favor since the last T20 World Cup, has been brought back into the squad despite his underwhelming recent performances.

Afridi did not hold back in questioning the basis of Shadab’s selection, highlighting his poor domestic and international form.

“On what basis has he been recalled? What are his performances in domestic cricket or otherwise that he has been picked again?” Afridi asked during a media interaction.

Shadab’s recent stats paint a worrying picture:

T20 World Cup 2024:
- Runs: 44
- Wickets: 0 (in four innings)
Last 10 domestic matches:
- Half-centuries: 2
- Wickets: 5

These underwhelming numbers have raised serious questions about the selection criteria used by the PCB. Afridi believes that this lack of performance-based selection is a recurring issue in Pakistan cricket, where players are often picked based on reputation rather than merit.

The Lack of Continuity and Accountability in Pakistan Cricket

Afridi’s frustration with the PCB extends beyond individual selections. He has pointed out a longstanding issue within Pakistan cricket—a lack of continuity and accountability at the highest levels.

“All the time we talk about preparations, and when an event comes and we flop, then we talk about surgery. The fact is Pakistan cricket is in the ICU because of incorrect decisions.”

This statement reflects the reactionary approach often taken by the PCB. Instead of building a stable, long-term strategy, the Board frequently makes abrupt changes in leadership and selection, often blaming players and coaches for failures instead of addressing structural issues.

Frequent Captaincy & Coaching Changes: A Recipe for Disaster

Pakistan cricket has witnessed multiple leadership changes in recent years, creating an unstable environment for players and team management.

Babar Azam was removed as all-format captain after the 2023 World Cup failure.
Shaheen Afridi was given the T20I captaincy, only to be replaced by Babar within months.
The coaching staff has been changed frequently, with no long-term continuity.

Afridi criticized this constant chopping and changing, arguing that it creates uncertainty within the team and prevents players from settling into their roles.

“There is no continuity or consistency in the Board’s decisions and policies. We keep changing captains, coaches, or some players, but in the end, what is the accountability for Board officials?”

This lack of stability not only affects player performance but also damages team morale and overall confidence.

The Blame Culture Within PCB: A Toxic Cycle

Another major issue highlighted by Afridi is the blame culture within Pakistan cricket. Instead of taking responsibility for their decisions, PCB officials often shift the blame onto players and coaching staff to protect their own positions.

“How can our cricket progress when there is a sword hanging constantly over the captain and coaches’ heads?”

Afridi’s remarks emphasize how uncertainty at the top trickles down to the players, who are never sure of their place in the squad. This lack of security leads to low confidence and inconsistency in performances.

This pattern has been evident in past World Cups and major tournaments, where Pakistan’s failures are often followed by mass firings and scapegoating, instead of addressing the core problems within the system.

Impact on Pakistan Cricket: A Team in Crisis?

Afridi’s outburst is not without reason—Pakistan cricket has been struggling with inconsistency for years. While the team has moments of brilliance, they often fail to deliver consistently in big tournaments.

1. Declining Performances in ICC Events

Pakistan’s performances in major ICC tournaments have been a rollercoaster ride.

T20 World Cup 2022: Runners-up (defeated by England in the final)
ODI World Cup 2023: Group-stage exit, failing to qualify for the semi-finals
T20 World Cup 2024: Early elimination, failing to reach the knockout rounds

Despite having some of the most talented players, the team has struggled to put together consistent performances. The lack of stability in leadership, questionable selection choices, and a chaotic management structure have all contributed to these failures.

2. The Risk of Player Discontent

Afridi’s criticism also highlights a growing concern among former players and experts—the risk of player discontent.

Frequent changes in leadership create uncertainty among players.
Poor communication from the PCB leads to confusion over selection and strategy.
Lack of a clear roadmap makes it difficult for players to plan their careers.

When senior players lose faith in the management, it impacts team unity and on-field performances.

Can PCB Fix the Crisis? Afridi’s Wake-Up Call

Afridi’s criticism is not just an attack—it’s a wake-up call for the PCB. If Pakistan cricket wants to compete at the highest level, the Board must address these deep-rooted issues.

1. Implement a Stable Leadership Structure

Appoint a captain and coach for the long term, allowing them enough time to build a team.
Stop the frequent leadership changes, which disrupt player development.

2. Ensure Merit-Based Selection

Players should be selected based on current form and domestic performances, not past reputation.
Create a transparent selection process with clear criteria.

3. Hold PCB Officials Accountable

If the team fails, PCB officials must take responsibility instead of blaming players.
Appoint a strong cricket advisory committee to oversee decision-making.

4. Invest in Player Development

Revive Pakistan A tours to groom young players.
Strengthen domestic cricket, ensuring a strong talent pipeline.

Afridi’s Words Must Not Be Ignored

Shahid Afridi’s frank assessment of Pakistan cricket’s problems should not be dismissed as mere criticism. His words highlight real issues—the lack of stability, accountability, and meritocracy that have plagued Pakistan cricket for years.

If the PCB fails to address these concerns, Pakistan cricket risks falling further behind in the global game. Afridi’s wake-up call should serve as a catalyst for change, pushing the Board to adopt a long-term vision and build a stable, competitive team for the future.

With the T20I series against New Zealand approaching, all eyes will be on how Pakistan performs. But beyond individual matches, the real test for the PCB lies in its ability to bring lasting reform to Pakistan cricket.

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