Pakistan Cricket Chief Defends Team Amidst Criticism Following Test Losses

In a recent media briefing, PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi defended the Pakistan cricket team against harsh criticism following their significant Test defeats to England. He highlighted the team's progress in ODI rankings and urged critics to stop demoralizing the players. Naqvi acknowledged the challenges of team selection and emphasized that improvement takes time. His remarks come as the team faces scrutiny for its performance in the ongoing series, currently trailing 0-2. This defense aims to rally support for the young squad as they navigate through tough times.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 3, 2026, 17:33 IST

PCB Chairman Responds to Criticism

Karachi: PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi expressed his frustration over the backlash directed at Pakistan's cricket team following their significant Test defeats against England. He criticized those who have never achieved success in their own careers for their harsh judgments.

During a media briefing in London, Naqvi pointed out that other teams, including India, have also faced defeats against lesser opponents, emphasizing that occasional losses do not define a team's overall capability.

The Pakistan Cricket Board has faced scrutiny after opting to replace seven players in the squad touring England, predominantly featuring younger talent. Currently, Pakistan is down 0-2 in the three-match series.

Irritated by the widespread criticism, Naqvi, who also serves as Pakistan's Interior Minister, argued that it is unjust to claim that the state of cricket in the country is at its lowest.

"You were once ranked eighth in ODIs, and now you are fifth. Out of six ODI series, you have won four, yet people say our cricket is finished?" he remarked.

"Our success rate has improved from 24% to 73%. I’m not just referring to one match, yet still, people claim our cricket is over?"

He urged critics and fans to refrain from demoralizing the players, noting that former cricket stars like Shahid Afridi, Mohammed Yousuf, and Rashid Latif have also voiced their concerns.

"When players who have never accomplished anything in their careers speak negatively, it’s unreasonable," he stated, adding that he regularly seeks advice from former players.

"Mistakes can occur in selection, and I take responsibility for that. We must address it, and sometimes players need to be replaced if they underperform," he acknowledged.

Naqvi concluded by stating that transforming a team from ninth to first place cannot happen overnight, indicating that there is still a long journey ahead.