Former Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad has taken aim at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following comments from Indian spinner Ravichandran Ashwin regarding the current state of Pakistan cricket. Ashwin, expressing his astonishment at Pakistan’s recent struggles, pointed to their 0-2 home defeat to Bangladesh in a two-match Test series. He highlighted the contrast between the team’s current performance and their dominance during the era of Misbah-ul-Haq, Younis Khan, and Yasir Shah.
Shehzad responded to Ashwin’s observations with biting sarcasm. He questioned Ashwin’s surprise, emphasizing the PCB’s ongoing infrastructure projects, particularly stadium construction, as a sign of progress. He also mocked the PCB’s efforts to organize tournaments like the Champions One-Day Cup, suggesting it would magically solve the team’s issues.
Shehzad’s criticisms extended to downplaying Pakistan’s failure to qualify for the Super 8 round of the 2024 T20 World Cup and acknowledging the presence of internal divisions within the team. He asserted that these shortcomings weren’t significant problems, dismissing Ashwin’s concerns.
Shehzad’s comments are not entirely unexpected, as he has been a vocal critic of the PCB for years, accusing the board of favoritism and broken promises towards domestic cricketers. Notably, he previously refused to participate in the Champions Cup due to his perception of unfair treatment within the system.
Ashwin’s comments and Shehzad’s response paint a bleak picture of Pakistan cricket. The stark contrast between the team’s former glory and its current challenges is evident, prompting questions about the PCB’s direction and the future of Pakistan cricket.
