Photo Credit: Instagram Photo of @imshoaibakhtar
Former fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has called for a break for key pacers Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah, stressing the importance of workload management to preserve their fitness and performance. Speaking as the guest of honor and brand ambassador at the Capital Premier League (CPL) signing ceremony in Islamabad, Akhtar also took the opportunity to criticize the Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) inconsistent selection policies and the state of cricket in the country.
“I don’t understand why players are dropped and then brought back,” Akhtar said, expressing frustration over the national team’s management. Reflecting on the talent within the squad, he remarked, “If I had players like Babar Azam, Shaheen Afridi, Haris Rauf, and Naseem Shah under my guidance, they would have been mega stars by now.”
While Akhtar acknowledged PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi’s efforts to improve the country’s cricket infrastructure, he also pointed to a critical need for change within the board’s management. “Naqvi wants to work for cricket’s betterment, but he also needs to replace his key decision-makers,” Akhtar stated, emphasizing that policy reforms are essential for Pakistan’s cricketing future.
Reflecting on Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the Champions Trophy, Akhtar drew a parallel between the decline of cricket and hockey in the country, blaming frequent changes in management and team selection for the lack of progress. “Frequent changes in management and the team are not yielding results,” he said, reinforcing the need for stability in both areas.
In his final remarks, Akhtar reiterated the importance of player workload management, particularly for the country’s fast bowlers. He urged the PCB to ensure that Shaheen, Haris, and Naseem are given proper rest to maintain their fitness and avoid injuries, ensuring their sustained contributions to Pakistan cricket.
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Name of Author: Cricexec Staff
