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"If I Had Influence, I’d Be The Chairman": Shahid Afridi Criticizes PCB's Failed Political Setup

Soumyajit Dutta

Shahid Afridi [Source: @SAfridiOfficial/X]Shahid Afridi [Source: @SAfridiOfficial/X]

Former Pakistan cricket captain Shahid Afridi has raised concerns over the politicization of appointments within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the declining quality of talent in the national setup. 

Reflecting on his era, he highlighted the absence of the same calibre of match-winners in the current team, linking it to systemic flaws in domestic cricket like PSL and developmental pathways.

Shahid Afridi Blasts PCB's Poor Management And Political Debacle

Shahid Afridi emphasized the urgent need for structured grassroots programs, particularly at youth levels, to nurture future stars. He argued that bureaucratic interference and politically motivated leadership have stifled progress, leaving the sport’s infrastructure ill-equipped to cultivate players effectively.

Speaking to the media in Gilgit, Afridi remarked, “If I had influence, I’d be the PCB chairman today. During our time, the national team had many match-winners — now, there aren’t as many.” 

Afridi Wants To Join PCB For The 'Sake Of Pakistan'

He stressed accountability in player development, adding, “In Under-16, 17, and 19 teams, players need to be taught. We need capable people at the lower levels to train these players properly.”

“If you hand over domestic cricket to a bureaucrat, no one will understand it. Every PCB chairman comes in on political grounds. Changing faces won’t change the system,” Afridi added, criticizing domestic cricket’s management.

Addressing regional talent, Afridi assured, “If there’s talent in Gilgit-Baltistan, it won’t go to waste,” and clarified his stance on joining the board, “I don’t want any contract or perks. If I were to join the PCB in any capacity, it would be for the sake of Pakistan.”

Meanwhile, Pakistan will be facing West Indies next for the T20I and ODI series in July starting from July 31. The series will end with an ODI match on 12th August.