Pakistan cricket is once again under intense scrutiny following a disappointing campaign in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 and a subsequent ODI series defeat in Bangladesh.
The latest criticism has come from former Pakistan opener Ahmed Shehzad, who has strongly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for what he described as a lack of authority and accountability.
Strong Criticism of PCB’s Player-Centric Approach
Shehzad alleged that the PCB has spent years promoting a select group of players as the face of both the national team and the Pakistan Super League (PSL), without ensuring consistent performance.
According to him, the board invested heavily in branding, leadership roles, and endorsements for these players, but failed to build a strong, results-driven system.
“You handed over the entire team to a few players, but what have they delivered?” Shehzad questioned.
Accountability Concerns Raised
The former cricketer further criticised players for not taking responsibility for repeated failures. He highlighted a culture where blame is shifted rather than accepted, which he believes has weakened the team’s overall structure.
Shehzad also expressed concern that the PCB appears unable to enforce discipline or make tough decisions, despite having the authority to do so.
Systemic Issues in Pakistan Cricket
Beyond individual performances, Shehzad pointed to deeper structural problems within Pakistan cricket. He argued that the board’s focus on marketing star players has delayed the introduction of new talent and hindered long-term team development.
“The board looks powerless. It feels like they are kneeling before players,” he said.
Recent Performance Decline
Pakistan’s early exit from the T20 World Cup and a 1-2 ODI series loss have intensified public and expert criticism. The team’s inconsistency continues to raise questions about leadership, team selection, and long-term strategy.
