Former Prime Minister Expresses Anger Over PCB Leadership
Pakistan’s early elimination from the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 has left fans devastated, especially considering the long-awaited return of an ICC tournament to the country after 29 years. The disappointment reached a boiling point when the team, led by captain Babar Azam, lost two consecutive group-stage games to New Zealand and India, resulting in their quick exit from the competition.
Imran Khan, World Cup-winning captain and former Prime Minister, has voiced his frustration with the situation, warning that cricket in Pakistan could face serious consequences if “favourites” continue to be placed in positions of power. His comments came after Pakistan’s hopes of advancing were dashed, with the team relying on a Bangladesh victory over New Zealand, which ultimately didn’t happen.
Imran Khan Criticizes PCB Leadership
In a statement, Imran Khan’s sister, Aleema Khan, relayed his anger towards the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). According to her, Imran Khan believes that appointing individuals based on favoritism rather than merit will eventually destroy the sport in Pakistan.
Imran Khan also took aim at PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, criticizing his leadership and accusing him of “making a mess” in every position he’s held. “No one in Pakistan has as many positions as Mohsin Naqvi,” Imran Khan allegedly said, highlighting Naqvi’s controversial past, including his tenure as Punjab’s Chief Minister and later as Interior Minister. Despite his repeated failures, Imran Khan expressed disappointment that Naqvi had not stepped down following the poor performance of the national team.
A Disappointing Outcome for Pakistan
Pakistan’s early exit has been hard to digest for the nation’s cricket fans, who were eagerly anticipating their team’s success on home soil. With the team needing Bangladesh to defeat New Zealand to stay in the hunt for the semi-finals, the outcome felt like a cruel twist of fate when the Kiwis secured a five-wicket win over the Tigers.
Looking ahead, Pakistan’s final group-stage match against Bangladesh on Thursday is now a mere formality. With both teams already eliminated from the tournament, the game will have no bearing on the outcome of the Champions Trophy 2025.
A Call for Accountability
Imran Khan’s remarks highlight a broader issue of accountability in Pakistan’s cricket administration. His calls for resignations and greater responsibility come amid growing frustration over the team’s performance and the management of the sport in the country. As the nation reflects on another disappointing ICC campaign, the focus will likely shift to future reforms within the PCB to ensure that such setbacks do not repeat themselves.
While the current tournament may be over for Pakistan, the debate about leadership and decision-making within the PCB is far from finished. Will the board heed these concerns, or will cricket in Pakistan continue to struggle under ineffective management? Only time will tell.
