Imam criticises selectors over 'liking-disliking' culture

The opener calls current state of Pakistan cricket worst in his 7-year career

Pakistan's opening batter Imam-ul-Haq criticized the team's selection process, accusing the selectors of inconsistent criteria when choosing players.

He also claimed that the current state of Pakistan cricket is the worst he has seen in his seven-year career.

In a candid interview with a local sports platform, the left-hand batter admitted that things went awry during recent tournaments.

He specifically pointed out the shocking loss to the USA, which he believes further damaged Pakistan's position in the competition.

"I wasn't in the T20 World Cup, but I've heard a few stories that I feel are worse than the ODI World Cup. I think only those players who were on the field can truly tell what happened," Imam explained.

He went on to say that his discussions with captain Babar Azam only gave him partial insight into the situation.

"There's a difference between talking on the phone and being present on the spot," he added.

The28-year-old also referenced Pakistan's narrow loss to India, describing how the team, despite being in a winning position—needing just a run-a-ball—collapsed dramatically.

"Losing that match (to the USA) and then to India... You come to a winning situation where you need a run-a-ball and then lose from that point," Imam lamented.

In his analysis, he stressed that victories are crucial for restoring confidence within the team.

"A win is very important for the return of confidence. Although things are changing—captaincy has changed—and I think this happens in every country. You cannot control it. Only a win can save us from all these issues," he said.

Turning his attention to the selection process, Imam was particularly vocal about the perceived favoritism among players.

He accused the selectors of fostering a culture of "liking and disliking," where some players are given more opportunities than others with similar abilities.

"We gave our players consistent chances, but we didn't get the results in the ODI World Cup. Other sides rely on giving consistent opportunities," he stated.

"If you are giving a player 15 matches while another player of similar caliber gets only three matches, then you're creating problems for yourself. Selection criteria vary from player to player, based on liking or disliking."

Imam also expressed concern over the impact of these inconsistencies on players' confidence.

"The confidence of every player is shaken from top to bottom. I don't think I've seen Pakistan play this badly in my seven-year career.