After nearly three decades, the ICC mega-event, the Champions Trophy, was held on home ground, but Pakistan’s shameful performance, failure to reach the semi-finals, and overall poor showing have led top officials to consider big changes in Pakistan cricket after champions trophy disaster. Big decisions are expected soon.
Players who have retained their spots in the team despite inconsistent performances may not have a secure future anymore.
Experts following Pakistan cricket highlight that over the past three years, four chairmen, eight coaches, and 26 selectors have been changed, yet some senior cricketers, through strong lobbying and influence, have continued to hold their places in the squad.
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Currently, the biggest challenge for PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi and the cricket board is to end player power and the undue influence of certain groups. Senior Pakistani sports journalist Abdul Majid Bhatti states that the most pressing issue for board officials is to dismantle a specific group of seven to eight players who allegedly exert pressure through lobbying and blackmailing tactics, causing difficulties for the board.
Regarding squad selection for the Champions Trophy, it has been revealed that after the 15-member squad was announced, PCB suggested at least two revisions, but selectors and captain Mohammad Rizwan refused any changes. Chairman Mohsin Naqvi even arranged a 90-minute meeting at the National Academy boardroom, but no progress was made. The selectors were advised to replace two to three players and include an additional spinner, but Rizwan and the selection committee remained firm on their decision.
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Similarly, before the crucial match against India, PCB officials recommended replacing Imam-ul-Haq with Usman Khan as an opener, given Usman’s experience in UAE conditions. However, Rizwan and the selectors rejected the proposal and stuck with Imam-ul-Haq.
Senior sports journalist Saleem Khaliq reported that there was an ongoing power struggle between the captain and the coach during the Champions Trophy. Rizwan was reportedly frustrated over a lack of consultation in decision-making. He backed Khushdil Shah’s inclusion, while interim head coach Aaqib Javed insisted on picking Faheem Ashraf. PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi had suggested squad revisions twice before the tournament, but his advice was ignored. He chose not to exercise his authority to enforce changes.
Following the tournament, PCB will review the team’s performance and discuss areas of failure with management. Sources indicate that while Chairman Naqvi encouraged the team on the flight to Dubai, the return flight was silent. His primary focus is now on the Champions Trophy, after which Pakistan will head to New Zealand for a white-ball series, with the first T20I scheduled for March 16 in Christchurch.
Big Changes in Pakistan Cricket After Champions Trophy Disaster: Major Overhaul Expected in Team and Management
It is likely that interim head coach Aaqib Javed will not be retained beyond the Champions Trophy. A new interim coach is expected for the New Zealand tour, while the search for a permanent head coach will begin after the tournament. The current selection committee may also be dismissed, and new players could be given opportunities for the New Zealand series. Senior players who underperformed in the Champions Trophy might be dropped.
Pakistan’s campaign in the ICC Champions Trophy ended within days after suffering two consecutive defeats. New Zealand’s five-wicket win over Bangladesh at Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium confirmed Pakistan’s elimination from the semi-finals, along with Bangladesh.
Earlier, on February 19, Pakistan lost their opening match of the Champions Trophy to New Zealand by 60 runs, failing to chase a 321-run target and getting dismissed for 260. On February 23, in the high-voltage encounter against India, Virat Kohli’s brilliant century powered India to a six-wicket victory over Pakistan.
Despite bold claims before the tournament, Pakistani players failed miserably in all departments, first against New Zealand in Karachi and then against India in Dubai.
Intense Public Backlash Leaves Pakistani Cricketers Distressed
Pakistan’s early exit from the Champions Trophy and defeat against India have triggered a severe public backlash, leaving the players deeply troubled. Pakistani cricketers are visibly affected by the widespread criticism on social media and other platforms. To avoid facing public outrage, they have completely restricted their movements in public places.
