Afridi Criticizes PCB Decisions, Suggests Rizwan Should Have Retained T20 Captaincy

ISLAMABAD: Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Khan Afridi has expressed his views on the recent changes in the national team, stating that Mohammad Rizwan should have been retained as the captain for the T20 series against New Zealand.

Speaking at an event, Afridi emphasized that decisions made without merit lead to problems. He criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), stating that while each chairman believes they can fix everything, the system remains unchanged despite the leadership changes.

Afridi also pointed out that there is no clear process for players returning to the national team, mentioning that players removed from T20s are likely to return in the future.

The former all-rounder remarked that it seems like cricket is still in the ICU, with preparations for major events followed by discussions on “surgery” for improvement. He also took issue with the coaches, noting that they do not take responsibility for losses and instead blame players, while taking credit for victories.

Regarding the upcoming series against New Zealand, Afridi expressed his belief that Salman Agha is a suitable choice as the ODI captain but questioned the decision to appoint him as the T20 captain, suggesting Mohammad Rizwan should have kept that role.

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Afridi also addressed the role of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, acknowledging that Naqvi is a positive individual but criticizing his lack of cricket experience. He urged Naqvi to choose one position, as he currently holds three roles simultaneously.