“Management is completely clueless”: Shoaib Akhtar blasts PCB after Pakistan’s tournament exit

Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar launched a scathing attack on the team management and the Pakistan Cricket Board after Pakistan were knocked out of the tournament following their failure to restrict Sri Lanka national cricket team to 147 runs.

Speaking in a post-match discussion, Akhtar termed the current state of Pakistan cricket as “completely clueless,” questioning both the tactical approach and long-term planning of the management.

“Completely Clueless About What We’re Doing”

Akhtar did not hold back in his criticism, stating that the team’s execution — particularly in bowling at the death — once again exposed deeper structural issues.

“I think Pakistan’s management is completely clueless,” he said. “What we have been doing for the last 15 days, and in fact the last four tournaments, shows we don’t know what we’re doing.”

He argued that although the correct playing XI was finally selected in the must-win clash, it came far too late in the tournament to make any real difference.

“Today they selected the right team and proved it. But the combinations we played earlier were wrong. There has been no clarity in selection or planning,” he added.

Backing Natural Roles, Slamming Selection Policy

Akhtar particularly defended senior opener Fakhar Zaman, claiming that the left-hander’s role has been mishandled for years.

“You’ve been spoiling Fakhar Zaman for five or six years. He is a natural opener. Let him play his natural game,” Akhtar said.

He also pointed out that players like Saim Ayub, Fakhar Zaman, and others showed intent when given clarity in their roles but were inconsistently backed.

“All three had the right intent and performed. Then suddenly they’re out. What message are you giving?” he questioned.

Akhtar further noted the absence of key players including Naseem Shah, suggesting that instability and constant chopping and changing have hurt team balance.

Message to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi

Turning his focus to PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi, Akhtar struck a mixed tone — expressing support but urging urgent reform.

“I’m all for Mohsin Naqvi. I think he’s a great guy and he wants to do well,” Akhtar said. “But is he asking for the right help? No, he’s not.”

Akhtar described Naqvi as one of the most powerful PCB chairmen since Tauqir Zia, highlighting that he has the resources and authority to bring structural change.

“He has the strength and positioning. If he cannot build the right management around him, and you’re losing to qualifiers in four tournaments, then something is seriously wrong within the board,” he warned.

“He Is the Last Hope”

Despite the criticism, Akhtar called Naqvi the “last hope” for reviving Pakistan cricket.

“The advice they’re giving you is making you look bad. The team they’re building is not doing you justice,” he said. “He is the only last hope for Pakistan cricket.”

Pakistan’s elimination after failing to contain Sri Lanka to a modest total of 147 has intensified scrutiny over the team’s strategy, execution, and leadership. With growing public frustration and repeated early exits from major tournaments, pressure is mounting on the PCB to initiate structural reforms rather than cosmetic changes.

As Akhtar’s fiery remarks echo across the cricketing landscape, the question remains whether those at the helm will heed the warnings — or whether Pakistan cricket’s cycle of inconsistency will continue.