Shoaib Akhtar tears into Pakistan’s leadership, calling Rizwan “abnormal” and blaming PCB for poor selections and mismanagement.
February 26, 2025: Akhtar’s Fiery Take on Pakistan Cricket Crisis
Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has launched a scathing attack on Pakistan captain Mohammad Rizwan after the team’s early exit from Champions Trophy 2025. Speaking on PTV Sports, Akhtar criticized Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for its flawed selection process and slammed Rizwan’s leadership, calling him “abnormal.”
"Ap abnormal logon ko captain banao gay tau yehi ho ga."
— M (@anngrypakiistan) February 24, 2025
Shoaib Akhtar on Rizwan pic.twitter.com/iQ4nZ6rKM6
Pakistan’s semi-final hopes were crushed after New Zealand defeated Bangladesh, confirming their elimination from the tournament. Akhtar, visibly frustrated, also targeted former captain Babar Azam, questioning his mindset and leadership choices.
Also Read: Imran Khan Warns on Pakistan’s Champions Trophy Exit: “Cricket Will Be Destroyed”
Key Takeaways from Shoaib Akhtar’s Comments:
1️⃣ Harsh Criticism of Rizwan:
Akhtar mocked Rizwan’s captaincy, blaming PCB for choosing “abnormal people” as leaders.
2️⃣ Accusations Against PCB Selection Process:
He blasted the board’s selection criteria, saying Pakistan cricket has been on a downfall since 2011 due to lack of vision and accountability.
Also Read: Over 100 Pakistan Policemen Sacked for Refusing Champions Trophy Duty for This Reason
3️⃣ Call for Major Reforms:
Shoaib offered to take charge of Pakistan’s domestic cricket to “fix” the system, stating that he would dedicate himself to improving the country’s cricket structure.
4️⃣ Comparison with Virat Kohli:
Akhtar compared Babar Azam to Virat Kohli, arguing that Kohli’s idol was Sachin Tendulkar, whereas Babar’s inspiration was the wrong set of players, leading to his “fraudulent” approach in international cricket.
5️⃣ Shoaib Malik’s Suggestion:
Former Pakistan captain Shoaib Malik challenged Akhtar to join PCB and implement changes instead of just criticizing from the outside.
6️⃣ Final Champions Trophy Match Now a “Dead Rubber”:
With both Pakistan and Bangladesh eliminated, their final game on Thursday holds no significance for the tournament.
Will Pakistan Cricket See Reforms?
Pakistan’s early Champions Trophy exit has reignited debates over team selection, player mindset, and PCB’s leadership. With Shoaib Akhtar, Shoaib Malik, and Mohammad Hafeez voicing concerns, calls for major structural changes in Pakistan cricket are growing louder.
Whether these criticisms lead to meaningful reforms or continue as mere debates remains to be seen.