Pakistan batsman Ahmed Shehzad has attributed the team’s poor performance in the ongoing T20 World Cup 2024 to two key decisions taken by Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi. His comments came following Pakistan’s elimination from the tournament after the Ireland vs USA match was abandoned due to rain.
“Since Mohsin Naqvi became PCB president, he has made two major mistakes. Firstly, him reinstating Babar as captain and secondly, appointing Wahab Riaz as chief selector. His decision making and management have been very unprofessional. This has allowed a group of 7-8 players who practice groupism to remain uncontrolled. If these players are not dealt with, it will be unfair to those who might be sacked,” Shehzad said during an interview with Geo News.
Shehzad also criticized senior players, including captain Babar Azam, for their lackluster performances. Pakistan lost matches against India and the United States and achieved a victory against Canada. After two losses, they needed a win in their final league game against Ireland and were hoping for a United States loss to Ireland to advance.
However, defeat in the match between Ireland and the United States meant that the United States finished with five points, while Pakistan could only manage a maximum of four points, leading to their elimination from the tournament.
“Against Canada, we needed a big win to improve our net run rate but Rizwan scored the slowest fifty and Babar also played a slow innings. Personal milestones have ruined Pakistan cricket. There is talk of leadership, but there is none: only positions on social networks. He has had 4-5 years to improve, but failed to get any significant wins.
“His fitness level is not up to par and there is obvious politicking within the team. Their cricket is declining instead of peaking,” Shehzad added.
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