Pakistan’s Cricket Struggles: Ahmed Shehzad Calls for Urgent Reforms
Pakistan’s disappointing exit from the Champions Trophy 2025 has sparked serious concerns about the state of the national team. Despite hosting the tournament, PAK was knocked out before reaching the semi-finals, leading to widespread criticism.
Veteran batter Ahmed Shehzad has voiced his frustration, pointing out deep-rooted issues affecting the team’s performance. According to India Today, Shehzad addressed the key reasons behind PAK’s downfall, emphasizing the lack of discipline, absence of merit-based selections, and persistent political interference.
The tournament started on a rough note for PAK, with a 60-run defeat to New Zealand. This was followed by a six-wicket loss against arch-rivals India at the Dubai International Cricket Stadium. New Zealand's subsequent defeat of Bangladesh sealed Pakistan's fate, eliminating them from the semifinals.
Fans and experts criticized the lack of strategy and questionable squad selections. "Political interference has always been there; there’s no doubt. But the condition of the team is not because of the last two years—this has been happening for a long time now. When you don’t bring in reforms, when you don’t honour merit, and when you don’t control indiscipline, these results will come," remarked Shehzad.
Another major talking point has been Babar Azam’s captaincy. Shehzad believes PAK made a mistake by appointing him solely based on his individual performances. “It’s sad to see Babar Azam in this condition. When he started his career, it seemed he would break all records for Pakistan. But now, everything is evident—players don’t fail this long,” he stated.
Shehzad criticized the ‘friendship culture’ within the team and the PCB’s selection process. He urged the board to enforce merit-based selections to stimulate competition and reinvigorate Pakistan cricket's reputation. “This disastrous performance isn’t new. This is the truth of this team,” he added.
Following the defeats, Shehzad exploded with anger, launching scathing comments against the PCB and its chairman, Mohsin Naqvi. He pointed to systemic issues, saying, “They ask for solutions from us. What solution can we give? Do you even listen to anyone?”
He questioned the PCB's integrity, expressing frustration over management practices. “They keep asking for support—how much more should we lend? Should we keep defending failures?” His words highlight the palpable sense of desperation among fans and cricketing legends alike.
Shehzad's comments serve as a wake-up call for the PCB and team management. If the board fails to implement necessary changes, the struggles may extend beyond this tournament run. He stressed the need for discipline, accountability, and reinforcing the domestic structure.
Despite the setbacks, Shehzad remains hopeful for the future of Pakistan cricket. Advocates call for the addition of individuals genuinely committed to the game within the PCB to help revitalize its sinking ship. “Teams don’t stop. Players come and go, but you must have the right intentions. This performance was abysmal, and changes are imperative,” he concluded.