Lahore, Pakistan – Web Desk: Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar, widely known as the “Rawalpindi Express,” has openly criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) leadership, identifying poor management as a key reason behind the team’s struggles, especially following Pakistan’s 61-run defeat to India in the ICC T20 World Cup 2026 group stage.
Speaking on an Indian television program, Akhtar expressed frustration over the current state of Pakistan cricket. He specifically criticized PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, saying, “If you appoint someone with no knowledge of cricket as board chairman, this is the outcome. It’s like making someone who knows nothing about news the head of a news channel — what can they achieve?”
Akhtar highlighted the mismanagement in player selection, saying, “When you make someone a superstar who cannot win a match, or a bowler who cannot bowl 10 overs effective, this is the result. The team cannot function under such circumstances.”
Acknowledging India’s cricketing progress, he admitted, “There is no real competition on the field; we can only talk on TV. India has moved far ahead while we have fallen behind.” Despite his criticism, Akhtar stressed his continued support for the Pakistan cricket team: “Even if we keep losing, I will not stop supporting the team. My hope now is that Pakistan defeats Namibia and advances to the next stage.”
Indian cricketer Mohammad Kaif, appearing on the same program, endorsed Akhtar’s assessment, agreeing that his analysis accurately reflected the challenges facing Pakistan cricket.
Akhtar’s remarks come amid growing scrutiny of Pakistan’s cricket administration and its impact on team performance, particularly during high-profile tournaments like the ICC T20 World Cup.
