'Pakistan cricket is in ICU,' Shahid Afridi blasts PCB over team’s poor show in Champions Trophy

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has strongly criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following the national team’s poor performance in the ICC Champions Trophy 2025. Pakistan failed to win a single match in the tournament, losing to India and New Zealand, while their game against Bangladesh was washed out.  

Afridi compared Pakistan’s cricketing situation to a critically ill patient, blaming poor decision-making for the team’s struggles.  

“All the time we talk about preparations, and when an event comes and we flop, then we talk about surgery. Fact is, Pakistan cricket is in ICU because of incorrect decisions,” Afridi said.  

He also questioned the recall of all-rounder Shadab Khan to the T20 squad. Shadab, who had been out of favor since the last T20 World Cup, has now not only returned to the team but has also been named vice-captain for the upcoming series against New Zealand.  

“On what basis has he been recalled? What are his performances in domestic cricket or otherwise that he had been picked again?” Afridi asked.  

Afridi pointed out that Pakistan cricket suffers from a lack of consistency. He criticized the frequent changes in leadership, saying it prevents long-term progress.  

“There is no continuity, consistency in the board’s decisions and policies. We keep changing captains, coaches, or some players, but in the end, what is the accountability for Board officials?” he said.  

He also slammed the blame game within Pakistan cricket, where players, coaches, and officials often shift responsibility onto each other.  

“It is sad to see coaches blaming players to save their jobs and the management blaming players and coaches to save their seats. How can our cricket progress when there is a sword hanging constantly over the captain and coaches' heads?” he added.  

Despite his criticism, Afridi acknowledged that PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi wants to improve Pakistan cricket but lacks deep knowledge of the game. 

“He wants to do well for Pakistan, but in the end, he depends on advice, and I told him he can’t continue doing three jobs at a time. He needs to focus on one job because being PCB Chairman is a full-time job,” Afridi stated.