Pakistan cricketer Saud Shakeel recently took a subtle yet pointed jab at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) during an interview, highlighting the ongoing instability in the board’s leadership and coaching appointments. Shakeel, known for his sharp wit, humorously remarked, “If I become the PCB Chairman, the first thing I will do is bring in a permanent coach for three years.” This statement underscores the frequent changes and the lack of continuity in the coaching staff that has plagued the PCB in recent years.
The PCB has seen a revolving door of coaches, with notable names like Morne Morkel, Gary Kirsten, and Jason Gillespie all stepping down amid reported internal power struggles. This instability has drawn significant criticism from fans and former players alike, who argue that such frequent changes disrupt team cohesion and strategy.
On the field, Pakistan’s struggles continued as they faced a disappointing defeat against New Zealand in Hamilton, losing by 84 runs and conceding the series 2-0. The Kiwis, led by an unbeaten 99 from Mitchell Hay, posted a challenging total of 292/8. Despite a shaky start at 132/5, a crucial 77-run partnership between Hay and the Lahore-born Muhammad Abbas (41) helped stabilize the innings. Pakistan’s bowlers, Sufiyan Muqeem (2/33) and Mohammad Wasim (2/78), tried to stem the flow but to no avail.
Chasing 293, Pakistan’s batting lineup crumbled early, with key players Abdullah Shafique (1), Babar Azam (1), and Imam-ul-Haq (0) falling cheaply, leaving the team reeling at 9/3 in just 5.3 overs. Despite valiant efforts from Faheem Ashraf (73 off 80) and Naseem Shah (51 off 44), Pakistan couldn’t recover from the early collapse and were eventually bowled out. New Zealand’s bowlers, Ben Sears (5/59) and Jacob Duffy (3/35), were instrumental in sealing the victory.
With the series already lost, Pakistan now faces the challenge of avoiding a whitewash in the final ODI, set to be played in Mount Maunganui on Saturday. As the team looks to regroup, Shakeel’s comments serve as a reminder of the broader issues within the PCB that need addressing to restore stability and success to Pakistan cricket.