Naqvi hints at major changes

PCB chairman remarks that a ‘major surgery’ is now necessary in Pakistan team

NEW YORK:

The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Sunday indicated that significant changes will take place in the national team following six-run defeat to India in the T20 World Cup 2024.

This loss puts Pakistan at risk of not qualifying for the Super Eight stage of the tournament.

While speaking to reporters after the match, he remarked that a “major surgery” is now necessary.

“Initially, I believed a minor surgery would suffice, but after this poor performance, it’s clear that a major overhaul is needed. The nation will soon witness substantial changes,” Naqvi said.

Naqvi further expressed that the defeat was disappointing in every aspect and indicated his awareness of the internal issues and reasons for their loss.

He emphasized that their primary challenge is to enhance the team’s performance, which he described as currently being at its lowest level.

Looking ahead, Naqvi mentioned the need to prepare a team for the Champions Trophy 2025.

“It’s time to give opportunities to the untapped talent,” he said.

“We aim to make the Pakistani cricket team one of the best in the world. The nation does not expect such disappointing performances,” Naqvi concluded.

Rift within Pakistan team

Former captain Shahid Afridi has expressed concerns about the atmosphere within the Pakistan cricket team after their six-run defeat to India in the T20 World Cup 2024.

“A captain brings everyone together, either he spoils the team environment or he builds the team. Let this World Cup finish, and I will speak openly,” said Afridi.

He also mentioned his close connection with fast bowler Shaheen Afridi, noting that his comments could be perceived as biased due to their family ties—Shaheen is married to Afridi’s daughter.

“I have such a relationship with Shaheen (Afridi) that if I talk about him, people will say I am favouring my son-in-law,” he added.

Adding to Afridi’s remarks, legendary cricketer Wasim Akram also highlighted the strained relationships within the team.

“There are players who don’t want to talk to each other. This is international cricket, and you play for your country. Make these players sit at home,” Akram said. The leadership change, with Babar Azam taking over from Shaheen Afridi just before the T20 World Cup, has been a point of contention.

Not eliminated yet

Pakistan faced a setback in their T20 World Cup campaign, losing to India by six runs in a tense encounter in New York on Sunday at the Nassau County International stadium.

This defeat has jeopardized their qualification for the Super Eight stage, but there’s still a glimmer of hope for the Green Shirts.

The 120-run target set by a struggling Indian batting side proved to be a tough challenge for Pakistan’s star players, who failed to make significant contributions in the crucial match.

Pakistan’s road to the Super Eight has become incredibly challenging with two losses in two matches. However, specific match outcomes can still pave the way for their progression in the tournament. Here’s a breakdown of how Pakistan can qualify for the T20 World Cup Super Eight round:

June 11: Canada vs Pakistan — Pakistan must win in this match.

June 12: USA vs India — India’s win is crucial for Pakistan’s chances.

June 14: USA vs Ireland — Pakistan needs Ireland to emerge victorious.

June 15: Canada vs India — Another win for India is required.

June 16: Ireland vs Pakistan — Pakistan must win this match convincingly.

In this scenario, India will directly qualify for the Super Eight. Pakistan and the USA will be tied on points, leading to Net Run Rate (NRR) becoming the decisive factor.  Pakistan needs substantial victories against Canada and Ireland while hoping for losses for USA against India and Ireland with significant margins.