‘Every year, a new chairman comes, and a new system is introduced’—Shahid Afridi blasts PCB for firing managers

Shahid Afridi, the former captain of Pakistan, has harshly criticised the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for their ongoing personnel turnover, especially in the wake of the depressing T20 World Cup 2024 campaign that saw the 2009 champions eliminated from the competition in the group stage.

The former all-rounder noted that a new system needs enough time to develop in order to flourish and be successful. Such patience was necessary for any changes to have a meaningful and beneficial effect. In addition, he said, “Things don’t work that way,” alluding to the frequent changes in the chairmanship and the management structure.

“The system needs time to adjust to any changes or new structures. A new chairman is appointed each year, and a new system is implemented. This isn’t how things operate,” Afridi remarked in an interview with Sports24.

Following the unannounced departure from the major tournament, there was a noticeable outcry from fans and the PCB, which resulted in significant adjustments to the support crew. Abdul Razzaq and Wahab Riaz were removed from their positions as selectors, and Babar Azam’s future is still up in the air. Furthermore, a comparable circumstance transpired during the 2023 ODI World Cup, when Zaka Ashraf was removed from his chairmanship just a few months after the competition ended.

What outcomes can you anticipate if the system is altered annually? Shahid Afridi

Shahid Afridi elaborated on his position, saying that all of the important actors and senior board members had to get together to create a thorough plan and schedule. A significant amount of time, like three years, should pass while this plan is put into practice, tested, and improved. He underlined that if the system is changed yearly, no significant outcomes can be expected.

“Every senior player and member of the board ought to gather around a single table and devise a strategy. After that, give that strategy a three-year run. Allow the outcomes to appear. What outcomes are you likely to get if you continue to alter the system annually? Afridi went on to say.

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In cricket terms, Pakistan’s next international assignment will be to host a two-match Test series at home against Bangladesh in August.