Ahmed Shehzad’s passionate rant on Pakistan Cricket team politics
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Ahmed Shehzad has launched a scathing attack on Pakistan’s cricketing system, condemning the selection process and domestic cricket structure in the aftermath of Pakistan’s defeat against India.
The former opener did not hold back, highlighting the lack of merit in team selection, internal politics, and the culture that, according to him, is preventing young talent from flourishing.
‘Same players, same politics’
Shehzad directly accused a group of six to eight senior players of running a clique within the team, making it difficult for young talent to break through. He claimed that these players hold undue influence over selection matters, ensuring that only those within their circle are given opportunities.
According to him, this has led to the stagnation of Pakistan cricket, as the same underperforming players continue to get selected while deserving youngsters are sidelined.
Shehzad dismissed PCB’s so-called “surgical reforms” as mere eyewash. He alleged that the board removed a selector and scapegoated a few players while keeping the larger structure intact.
He also criticised the appointment of former players as mentors on television panels, suggesting they were being paid hefty sums to protect the status quo rather than offer genuine critique.
Domestic Cricket crisis
Shehzad shifted the focus to Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure, arguing that real talent is being ignored because of favoritism. He passionately defended young, skilled players who, despite their abilities, are denied opportunities due to a lack of connections.
He challenged the belief that international selections are based purely on merit, insisting that nepotism and favoritism dominate the process.
“The board tells us that selections are based on performance, but we know that’s not true,” Shehzad said. “If someone doesn’t have the right contacts or an influential backer, they don’t stand a chance. I’ve seen it firsthand.”
What’s next for Pakistan Cricket?
Shehzad concluded his remarks by issuing a direct challenge to the PCB, urging them to take real action instead of cosmetic changes. He insisted that unless the system is overhauled and merit prevails, Pakistan cricket will continue its downward spiral.
“We’ve tried supporting this team, we’ve defended them for too long. Now it’s time for accountability,” Shehzad declared. “If you keep backing the same underperformers, don’t expect different results. There are young players who can turn things around, but only if they are given a fair chance.”
With the Champions Trophy approaching, questions about Pakistan’s selection policies and leadership remain unanswered. If Shehzad’s allegations hold any truth, the challenges ahead for Pakistan cricket could be far greater than just recovering from a defeat against India.
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