LAHORE- In a recent development, Pakistan’s cricketers have voiced their grievances against the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), claiming that the board failed to provide the support they needed during trying times.
Many senior players within the team feel abandoned, left to face criticism without the expected backing and defense from the PCB.
The latest reports suggested that one of the player on behalf of the team emphasized that their disappointment stems from the PCB’s inadequate support.
The issues began when false reports of player disputes surfaced, which the team tried to address through their manager. Unfortunately, their concerns were escalated unnecessarily through a press release. The players’ sole intention was to ensure that accurate information was conveyed. They emphasized that open discussions and differences of opinion occur during team meetings, but there has never been any actual fighting.
Besides it, the player pointed out that the captain alone does not dictate the entire team’s decisions, as coaches and other stakeholders also play vital roles. Nonetheless, blame is often placed squarely on the captain’s shoulders.
The player criticized the PCB’s statement labeling it as ‘ridiculous’ for stating that the team’s selection was solely the captain and chief selector’s responsibility. Misbah-ul-Haq, the head of the PCB’s cricket committee, has distanced himself from the decisions, creating an impression that if the team fails to reach the semi-finals, the players will be held accountable. The players feel unjustly portrayed, as if they had engaged in disputes with the board over contracts and hadn’t adequately prepared for the World Cup, despite being well-prepared when they arrived in India. Regrettably, the desired results have not been achieved thus far.
In another perspective, foreign coaches also appear dissatisfied with the management of affairs. Reports suggest that a few months ago, a rotation policy was introduced to provide players with rest, but this policy was abandoned when the directive from the management shifted to victory at all cost, causing disruptions.
The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) refuted claims that they did not support the players, pointing out that they have consistently stood by the team.
The board issued a press release and urged the cricket fraternity to support the national team.
