Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has taken a sharp dig at Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, accusing him of lacking cricketing knowledge. Afridi’s remarks come in the wake of Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025, where the team failed to progress beyond the group stage.
Speaking during an interview with Samaa TV, Afridi revealed that Naqvi himself admitted to having no expertise in cricket. “I met the chairman sahab a few days ago in Lahore. While the initiatives for improving stadiums like Gaddafi Stadium are commendable, he openly said he doesn’t know anything about cricket,” Afridi stated. He further criticized Naqvi for surrounding himself with bureaucrats rather than individuals with technical expertise in the sport.
Afridi also expressed concerns about the flawed domestic cricket structure in Pakistan, which he believes is a major factor behind the national team’s struggles. “The faces we see in the selection committee and directors have no connection with cricket. Strengthening the domestic cricket structure is crucial for the team’s success,” he added.
The former all-rounder emphasized the need for accountability within the PCB, pointing out that frequent changes in leadership and inconsistent decision-making have destabilized Pakistan cricket. Afridi’s comments highlight the growing frustration among cricketing circles over the PCB’s management and its impact on the team’s performance.
Mohsin Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan’s Interior Minister, assumed the role of PCB Chairman in 2024. His tenure has been marked by criticism following Pakistan’s early exits from major ICC tournaments, including the T20 World Cup and the Champions Trophy.
Afridi’s remarks have sparked a fresh debate about the state of cricket administration in Pakistan, with calls for reforms to address the challenges facing the sport in the country. As the PCB faces mounting scrutiny, the future of Pakistan cricket remains uncertain.
