“Fix domestic cricket first”: Mohammad Amir outlines bold reforms if he becomes Pakistan Cricket Board chairman

Former Pakistan fast bowler Mohammad Amir has called for sweeping reforms in the country’s cricket structure, stating that if he were given the opportunity to serve as chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) for even one year, his top priority would be to eliminate fear and financial insecurity among players.

Speaking candidly about the challenges faced by cricketers in Pakistan, Amir stressed that frequent changes in team combinations, coaching staff, and management will not yield results unless players feel secure about their careers.

“The first thing I’ll fix is players’ insecurity. You can change teams, coaches, management, everything — but if a player is always scared of being dropped, nothing improves,” Amir said.

The left-arm pacer pointed out that many players operate under constant pressure, knowing that one or two failures could cost them their place in the team. According to him, this fear directly affects performance, confidence, and long-term development.

Amir highlighted the condition of domestic cricket as the root of the problem. He argued that domestic players are not paid enough to sustain a professional career, which adds to their mental burden.

“I want to invest properly in domestic cricket — better match fees, better prize money. A player earning PKR 5,000 a day can’t even cover a meal in the hotel they stay in. How can he play freely?” he questioned.

The former pacer emphasized that financial stability is crucial for nurturing talent. He believes that when players are assured of a respectable income at the domestic level, they will not feel desperate to hold onto their place in the national side at all costs.

According to Amir, a secure domestic structure would allow cricketers to play with freedom and express themselves without fear of failure.

“When players know they’re financially settled in domestic cricket, they won’t fear failure. They’ll play with a free mind for Pakistan, and even if they fail once, they’ll know they still have a career.”

Amir’s remarks reflect a broader debate within Pakistan cricket regarding structural reforms and player welfare. Over the years, criticism has mounted over inconsistent policies, frequent selection changes, and limited financial incentives for domestic performers.

The 1992 World Cup-winning nation continues to produce immense talent, but questions remain about whether the system fully supports its players at the grassroots and domestic levels. Amir believes that strengthening domestic cricket is the foundation for long-term success at the international stage.

“Fix domestic cricket first. Remove fear. Only then performance will come,” he concluded.

Amir’s comments have sparked discussion among fans and analysts alike, many of whom see merit in prioritizing player welfare and structural stability as the key to unlocking Pakistan cricket’s true potential.