Pakistan’s early exit from the Champions Trophy has led to a nationwide outcry, with fans and experts expressing frustration over the team’s inconsistent approach. The hosts of the tournament, Pakistan, are officially out of the semi-finals race after suffering defeats against New Zealand and India in their first two group-stage matches. While the disappointment among fans was already at its peak, tensions escalated on live television when former Pakistan captain Mohammad Hafeez put his ex-teammate Shoaib Malik in an uncomfortable position with a pointed question regarding his mentorship role during the PCB-organized Champions Cup One-Day tournament last year.
The incident unfolded on PTV Sports during a discussion following New Zealand’s victory over Bangladesh, a result that sealed Pakistan’s elimination from the tournament. Malik, a former Pakistan captain, had been one of the five mentors appointed by the PCB for the pentangular Champions Cup tournament. Hafeez, known for his candid opinions, directed a question at Malik regarding his role in mentoring the Pakistan team.
“Malik is among the five mentors working with the Pakistan team. How much responsibility and authority were you given in that role?” Hafeez asked, putting Malik in a difficult position.
Before Malik could fully respond, Hafeez interrupted him, reiterating, “It’s been six months, right? Six months!”
Seeing the discomfort on Malik’s face, legendary Pakistan pacer Shoaib Akhtar quickly stepped in to defuse the tension. “Don’t put him in a spot,” Akhtar intervened, trying to redirect the conversation and ease the pressure on Malik. However, Hafeez persisted, stating, “I’m not asking him any difficult question.”
The awkward exchange left viewers stunned, as it highlighted the internal conflicts and accountability issues within Pakistan cricket. The incident also underscored the growing frustration among former players and analysts regarding the team’s lack of progress and the inefficacy of mentorship programs introduced by the PCB.
Pakistan’s Disappointing Campaign and National Reaction
Pakistan’s journey in the Champions Trophy had already been marred by poor performances, with back-to-back defeats against India and New Zealand. Their last hope of securing a semi-final spot hinged on Bangladesh defeating New Zealand, but the result did not go in their favor, sealing their fate in the tournament.
The team’s premature exit has sparked widespread criticism, with experts and former players questioning the selection process, team management, and overall structure of domestic cricket in Pakistan.
Former Pakistan captain Wasim Akram, speaking to AFP, did not hold back in his assessment of the team’s struggles.
“We have been backing these players for the last few years, but they are neither learning nor improving. It is time for a major shake-up. We need to improve our domestic cricket system so that we can produce quality cricketers, not ordinary ones,” Akram said.
Another former captain, Rashid Latif, echoed similar sentiments, calling for systematic reforms in the administration of Pakistan cricket.
“I feel very despondent with the state of Pakistan cricket. We must ensure merit-based selections and bring in professionals to run the game, rather than individuals appointed on political grounds. Frequent changes in the Pakistan Cricket Board, selection committees, and captains have hindered the development of a stable team structure,” Latif remarked.
Fan Discontent and Calls for Change
The disappointment was not limited to experts and former cricketers; fans across Pakistan expressed their frustration over the team’s lackluster performances. Many believed that the return of international cricket to Pakistan, with the country hosting a major ICC event, should have been a source of pride. However, the excitement was short-lived due to the team’s poor showing.
Umar Siraj, a 26-year-old pharmacist from Rawalpindi, shared his disappointment.
“We were thrilled that an international event had finally returned to our country, but the joy was short-lived. The hardest part of being a Pakistan fan is that you end up praying for other teams to lose rather than relying on your own team’s performance. It’s painful. I’m gutted,” he admitted.
Pakistan’s failure to progress further in the tournament has intensified discussions about the need for a complete overhaul of the system. Fans have been calling for accountability from players, coaches, and PCB officials. Social media has been flooded with debates about the need for fresh leadership and a more structured approach to player development.
What’s Next for Pakistan Cricket?
With their title defense ending in disappointment, Pakistan will now play Bangladesh in what is effectively a dead-rubber fixture. While the match holds no significance in terms of tournament progression, it provides an opportunity for Pakistan to salvage some pride and end their campaign on a high note.
Looking ahead, there are crucial questions that the PCB and the national team management must address. Will Pakistan undergo a major restructuring, or will they continue with the same core group of players? Will there be changes in leadership, including captaincy and coaching staff?
The debates sparked by Hafeez’s controversial question to Shoaib Malik on live television reflect broader concerns about Pakistan cricket’s direction. Whether these concerns will lead to meaningful reforms or fade into the background remains to be seen.
For now, the team and its supporters must endure yet another heartbreak and hope for a brighter future in international cricket.