Former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez has spoken out about the state of Pakistan cricket — and he was direct in his remarks. In a recent interview on the Pak TV YouTube channel, Hafeez strongly criticised PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, questioning his leadership and decision-making.
Hafeez Questions Naqvi’s Leadership
Hafeez was blunt in his assessment:
“I don’t know what Mohsin Naqvi is good at, but I am certain he is not effective in cricket administration.”
He argued that repeated poor decisions at the top have left Pakistan cricket without a clear direction. According to Hafeez, the team’s struggles on the field are closely tied to uncertainty and mismanagement off it.
Pakistan’s Struggles in Recent Years
The national team has faced several setbacks under Naqvi’s leadership:
• Defeat to the USA (2024): In June 2024, during the ICC T20 World Cup group stage, Pakistan tied with the USA, with both teams scoring 159 runs. Pakistan then lost in the Super Over, failing to chase the 18-run target and ending hopes in that match.
• Early exit from the Champions Trophy (2025): Pakistan, the defending champions, were eliminated in the group stage after losses to India and New Zealand, raising concerns about planning and strategy.
• ICC ODI ranking drop: Following recent series losses, Pakistan dropped to fifth place in the ICC Men’s ODI rankings.
In addition, financial audits have flagged governance and transparency concerns within the PCB, adding to the perception of mismanagement.
Too Many Captains, Too Much Change
Hafeez also highlighted instability in team leadership. In just a few years, Pakistan has had five different captains and multiple complete coaching overhauls.
He believes this constant change makes it nearly impossible for the team to build rhythm, cohesion, or long-term strategies.
“Rebuilding” Without Results
Another point Hafeez raised is the PCB’s repeated use of the term “rebuilding.”
While Pakistan cricket has gone through multiple cycles of rebuilding over the years, the team has still struggled to achieve consistent success. Hafeez emphasised that instead of frequent short-term changes, the focus should be on long-term stability, structured planning, and sustainable performance.
PCB Response and Fan Reactions
So far, the PCB has not publicly responded to Hafeez’s remarks. After the 2024 defeat to Bangladesh, Naqvi promised “changes are on the way,” but little concrete action has been seen since.
Fans and cricket analysts remain divided. Some agree with Hafeez, arguing that Pakistan needs steady leadership and a long-term vision. Others believe the problems extend beyond one chairman.
Conclusion
Hafeez’s criticism has reignited debate over Pakistan cricket’s leadership and future direction. With talent never in short supply, many believe governance, stability, and vision off the field are now the biggest challenges facing the national team.
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