In a candid critique of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), star batter Fakhar Zaman has urged the board’s chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, to prioritize administrative reforms over team changes.
This bold statement was highlighted in a video discussion shared by former cricketer Rashid Latif on Twitter, captioned,
Fakhar Slams PCB For A Massive Six.
The video features a conversation between Rashid Latif and TV presenter and cricket correspondent Dr. Nauman Niaz, where they discuss Fakhar Zaman’s remarks during PCB’s recently concluded Connection Camp.
During the camp, Fakhar Zaman reminded Chairman Mohsin Naqvi of his previous comments about performing a “surgery” on Pakistan cricket to improve on-field results. Fakhar suggested that the real focus should be on the administrative personnel surrounding the chairman and their treatment of players.
Dr. Nauman Niaz elaborated on Fakhar’s grievances, particularly regarding the issuance of No Objection Certificates (NOCs) for playing in international T20 leagues. Fakhar recounted an incident where he was granted an NOC to participate in Australia’s Big Bash League, only to be abruptly recalled for national duty after arriving in Australia.
A similar situation occurred when Fakhar Zaman was given an NOC to play in the 2024 Caribbean Premier League (CPL). After enduring a grueling 30-hour flight to the Caribbean, he was summoned back to Pakistan the very next day for a fitness test. Despite the exhausting travel, Fakhar reported for the fitness assessments, which the PCB deemed unsatisfactory, seemingly overlooking the impact of travel fatigue.
Check out the video here:
Fakhar’s comments have sparked a broader conversation about the PCB’s administrative practices and their impact on player welfare.
His call for internal reform highlights the need for a more player-centric approach, ensuring that administrative decisions do not undermine the performance and well-being of the athletes.