Ahmed Shehzad criticizes Pakistan's cricket system after Champions Trophy early exit

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Pakistan cricketer Ahmed Shehzad has made a scathing attack on the country’s cricket system following Pakistan's early exit from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. 

In a recent talk, Shehzad accused the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) of failing to address significant issues in team selection and the country's domestic cricket structure.

Known for his candid nature, Shehzad didn’t hold back in his criticism of the board, pointing to the lack of merit in the selection process and the influence of internal politics. He alleged that young, deserving players were being overlooked in favor of those with the right connections.

"I’ve seen it firsthand,” Shehzad said. 

"The PCB tells us that selections are based on performance, but that’s not true. If someone doesn’t have the right contacts, they don’t stand a chance. It’s not about how well you perform, it’s about who you know," he added. 

Shehzad also pointed fingers at a group of six to eight senior players within the national team, accusing them of creating a clique that had too much control over selection decisions. According to Shehzad, these senior players ensure that only those in their circle are chosen for the national team, regardless of form or performance.

"There’s a group of senior players who have too much influence. They control the selection process and ensure that only their ‘friends’ make the squad. As a result, talented young players are left out while underperforming veterans stay in the team," Shehzad stated.

The 33-year-old cricketer did not stop there, taking aim at the PCB’s so-called "surgical reforms." He described the changes as ineffective, claiming that they were just a superficial effort to cover up the real problems within Pakistan cricket.

"The PCB has made a few token changes—firing a selector, making some players scapegoats—but the system hasn’t changed. The same internal politics still exist, and nothing will improve unless real changes are made," Shehzad said.

Shehzad also expressed his discontent with former cricketers who serve as mentors and analysts for television networks. According to him, these individuals are merely protecting the current system rather than offering constructive criticism that could improve Pakistan's cricket.

"They are being paid to defend the system, rather than speak the truth. They are supposed to help Pakistan cricket, but all they do is maintain the status quo," Shehzad added.

When discussing Pakistan's domestic cricket structure, Shehzad was equally harsh, claiming that talent was often overlooked in favor of players who had influential backers. He argued that deserving players with the right skills, but lacking the right connections, are frequently ignored.

"Young, talented players who don't have the right connections are ignored. We have some of the best talent in the country, but it’s never given a chance to shine because of favoritism,” Shehzad said.

In his final remarks, Shehzad called for serious reforms within the PCB and Pakistan cricket. He warned that unless the system is overhauled and merit-based selection is prioritized, Pakistan cricket will continue to struggle.

"We’ve supported this team for too long," Shehzad said. 

"It’s time for accountability. If you keep backing the same underperforming players, you can’t expect different results. There are young players who can turn things around, but only if they are given a fair chance," he concluded. 

Pakistan's Champions Trophy campaign came to an end after they lost their first two matches against India and New Zealand. Their final group-stage match against Bangladesh was abandoned due to rain, leaving Pakistan at the bottom of the points table without a win.