The situation within Pakistan cricket continues to deteriorate as controversies and performance failures dominate headlines. From early exits in major tournaments to internal chaos, 2025 has been anything but favorable for the Men in Green.
In the latest blow, Pakistani middle-order batsman Saud Shakeel has publicly mocked the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) in a recent interview, drawing global attention for his bold and sarcastic remarks.
📉 Pakistan Cricket in Crisis Mode
Pakistan’s cricketing woes began earlier this year when the national team failed to qualify beyond the first round of the Champions Trophy 2025. The disappointments didn’t end there—Pakistan then lost both T20 and ODI series against New Zealand, sparking outrage among fans and analysts.
In the five-match T20 series, Pakistan was defeated 4-1, and in the three-match ODI series, they lost 2-0, with one match remaining. The most recent ODI in Hamilton saw Pakistan suffer an 84-run defeat, giving New Zealand an unassailable lead and raising the possibility of a 3-0 whitewash, with the final match set to be played at Mount Maunganui.
🗣️ Saud Shakeel’s Sarcastic Swipe at PCB
Reacting to the constant instability within the board, Saud Shakeel took a dig at PCB’s failure to appoint long-term coaching staff. During a recent interview, he said:
“If I become the PCB Chairman, the first thing I’ll do is appoint a permanent coach for at least three years.”
Although said in a light-hearted tone, the remark sheds light on a serious issue—frequent coaching changes that have left the team without continuity or clear direction. The board has faced heavy criticism over its inability to retain top coaching talent.
In the past few years, renowned names like Morne Morkel, Gary Kirsten, and Jason Gillespie have either resigned or refused long-term commitments due to internal politics, frequent leadership changes, and lack of a stable cricketing vision.
🏏 Leadership Changes and Performance Decline
Observers believe that Pakistan’s poor performances are directly tied to the instability at the top. Constant board-level reshuffles, mixed signals from management, and poor strategic planning have caused talented players to underperform.
Saud Shakeel’s comments, though couched in humor, reflect growing frustration within the team itself. It’s a sentiment shared by fans and former cricketers who feel the PCB needs urgent reform to revive Pakistan cricket's former glory.
🧑💼 Mohsin Naqvi Becomes ACC Chairman
In the midst of this turmoil, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi has been appointed as the new Asian Cricket Council (ACC) President. With this new role, Naqvi now holds the authority to oversee Asia Cup 2025, which will be played in the T20 format.
All eyes will be on his decisions regarding the tournament's scheduling and hosting, especially as Pakistan seeks to redeem itself on the Asian stage.
🔁 A Call for Stability and Long-Term Vision
As things stand, the Pakistan cricket system is clearly in need of structural reforms, leadership stability, and consistent coaching appointments. Saud Shakeel’s candid jab at the PCB may have been meant in jest, but it echoes the thoughts of many who believe it’s time the board takes accountability for its actions.
With international performances slipping and internal management under the scanner, 2025 might be a turning point—either for reform or for deeper crisis.
