Babar Azam's Omission Sparks Debate on PCB's Management
The current situation is a threat to Pakistan cricket's future, and the country's cricketing talent may prefer franchise leagues over national duties, weakening the national side. The PCB must prioritize player development and provide a stable environment for players to thrive, or risk losing its talented players to other leagues.
Pakistan's former World no.1 bowler Saeed Ajmal has criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for dropping star batter Babar Azam from the T20I squad, arguing that the decision is a form of degradation and sends a negative message to the team. Ajmal believes that the selectors should engage in direct dialogue with Babar to discuss his concerns and help him return to the team stronger.
Ajmal points out that Babar is not the only underperformer, and that the selectors' approach is too harsh. He compares Babar's batting style to Virat Kohli's, saying that Kohli's success is built on calculated batting, and that Babar can also be effective with a measured approach. The PCB's mismanagement, uncertainty, and poor infrastructure have led to a culture of insecurity among players, preventing them from developing into world-class athletes.
Despite having top players like Babar Azam, Mohammad Rizwan, and Shaheen Afridi, who have received numerous ICC awards, they do not enjoy permanent places or genuine security within the national team's setup. The PCB has dropped players like Rizwan despite his consistency and reliability, and has also failed to provide coaching support to players like Babar Azam, who has faced technical issues. The Pakistani public also contributes to deteriorating player morale by rapidly elevating young players to legendary status and then criticizing them when they face setbacks.
The PCB's poor financial management has led to the construction of hastily built stadiums lacking proper drainage and infrastructure, while the National Cricket Academy in Lahore lacks essential professional staff due to administrative negligence and corruption. The PCB's reliance on data analysis is also ancient, and its management of player participation in international leagues has led to frustration and distrust among franchises. Unless the PCB adopts holistic player development, responsible investment, and balanced fan engagement, Pakistan cricket will continue to decline.