Babar Azam under fire for poor captaincy during T20 World Cup

Former captain Shahid Afridi urges grassroots reforms, criticises leadership after dismal T20 WC

Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi didn't mince words when discussing the Pakistan cricket team's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup, jointly hosted by the USA and West Indies.

In a recent media interaction, Afridi placed significant emphasis on the role of leadership, particularly scrutinising skipper Babar Azam's influence on the team's demeanour and results throughout the tournament.

He referenced Indian captain Rohit Sharma, who recently led his team to victory over South Africa, securing their second T20 World Cup title.

"Look, the role of a leader is always very important. The body language of the leader becomes the body language of the team. The leader has to set an example. Take Rohit Sharma as an example. Now, look at his game and his style of playing; the lower-order batsmen who come in are all confident because the captain likes to play aggressive and attacking cricket. So, I always believe that the role of the captain is very important," Afridi said.

While expressing his continued support for Pakistan cricket, the former all-rounder stressed the need for reforms at the grassroots level.

"I am always available for Pakistan cricket, but at the grassroots level, there is no need for me with the Pakistan team. Whatever is needed is at the grassroots level," he said.

In response to questions about the team's performance, Afridi stated: "Overall, if the performance had been good, you wouldn't be asking this question. Let's see what the chairman has said about making major changes to the team. I am also waiting to see what these changes will be, and you are too. A positive decision needs to be made, and the changes shouldn't just be superficial. The real issue lies at the grassroots level of our cricket, which many cricketers often talk about. Our product is weak at the grassroots level, and if we invest there, good players will emerge. The real changes needed are at the grassroots level."

"There is talent; it just needs a bit of grooming. Cricket has changed now, and you have to develop your skills. We need coaches who can change the mindset at the grassroots level. Why do players start learning everything only when they join the Pakistan team? These things should be taught at the Under-19 level, including what coaching should be, what to eat, and how to train. The Pakistan team is a place for performance," he added.

Addressing governance issues within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), the former captain advocated for structural changes in the selection and administrative processes.

"There should be a proper board. I would never say that the chief executive of the board should be the Prime Minister; it absolutely should not be. There should be a separate board that makes the selections. The chairman should have good relationships with other boards and schedule tours. Apart from this, the selection committee should have no involvement. I think the chairman should not even be involved in announcing the captain. All these decisions should be made by the selection committee, which should be strong enough not to change decisions based on anyone's influence," he concluded.