Former Pakistan head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and captain Babar Azam (AFP Photo)
The PCB released seven players from the Test squad ahead of the third Test against England at Edgbaston, beginning September 9. The changes came after Pakistan suffered an innings-and-103-run defeat in the first Test before England won the second by 194 runs at Lord’s. Shah, 31, who has himself played two first-class matches, posted a lengthy assessment of Pakistan cricket on X, admitting that his comments could have consequences but saying he owed the game an honest assessment. The test match ended in 2.5 days…” Shah also turned his attention to Pakistan’s wider cricket ecosystem, including journalists, former players and the PCB. “10 year lease, you grow the brand, only to give it back to the PCB.
Because they worry about backlash and their jobs, everyone fears to speak their mind. He also questioned retention rules and category changes, saying owners “invest in players and talent hunts only to lose them due to retention rules and category changes that are agenda driven. Mohammad Rizwan, Imam-ul-Haq, Salman Ali Agha, Ali Usman, Aamer Jamal, Awais Zafar and Khurram Shahzad were among those released.
“Things I’ve observed from my playing days + actively being involved with the PSL, dressing room and PCB leadership,” he wrote. Now I understand living on hotel food and being stuck for 6 weeks is tough, but the word “professional” has to mean something,” he wrote. The Pakistan Cricket Board’s (PCB) stunning overhaul of the Test squad and coaching staff has become a major talking point in the cricket world, with Multan Sultans CEO Gohar Shah joining the growing chorus of criticism surrounding the changes. “This may land me in hot water but I owe an honest assessment to Pakistan cricket. I was a fan before I was a stakeholder. Shah then raised concerns over professionalism among players, including diet, workload and attitude. “Late nights and junk food are common. He also questioned the intensity shown by players during Test matches. “No one wants to do the tough yards. It’s a mentality thing. Like for instance a few times in the test match after a long spell the pace bowlers didn’t run after the ball. What are you saving your legs for? On the media, he wrote: “Journalists all pushing their own agendas, And they build narratives on who they like / who caters for them more I.e these things may or may not be leaks , gifts, favours. He was equally critical of former players who comment on the game without taking up coaching roles. “Barring a few who actually worked and got their coaching badges and qualifications most find it more comfortable to go on tv and just iterate the problems. No one presents the solutions nor goes out there and gets the experience / qualifications to contribute. Shah reserved another strong observation for the PCB, writing: “The board is too bureaucratic. Join conversation Share your thoughts in the comments Be respectful · TOI community guidelines He added: “There are people that genuinely wanted to help , but when they see their efforts go no where they stop trying and just settle for their paycheck. Shah also questioned the structure surrounding Pakistan Super League franchises, arguing that owners have limited incentives to invest heavily in developing their teams. So why would you grow if you see none of the benefit? Only the bills. Shah ended his post with a message of hope despite his criticism. “Pakistan cricket will always be in my heart. Pray for us to go back to being the best. Not just good or competitive, but the best. Get the latest Sports News and Live updates. Download the TOI app.
Coaching Changes Ahead of England Tour
Sarfaraz Ahmed has been dismissed from his role as head coach, while Umar Gul has also been removed as bowling coach. In their place, Mike Hesson will take over as head coach for the white-ball format, and Ashley Noffke will step in as the new bowling coach. These changes come just before the team’s upcoming tour of England.