Pakistan cricket has been embroiled in turmoil following the resignation of national selector Mohammad Yousuf. The team’s dismal performance in the T20 World Cup and the PCB’s alleged neglect of domestic performers have sparked widespread criticism.
The fallout from these issues was evident in the press conference of Iftikhar Ahmed, captain of the Markhors team in the Champions Cup. Visibly upset after his team’s defeat, Iftikhar lashed out at a reporter’s question about emerging young talent.
“What has the media observed?” he retorted. “Don’t hype someone after just one innings. Let them perform in domestic cricket for 2-3 seasons before talking about their prospects for Pakistan.”
Iftikhar’s outburst highlights the growing frustration among players and fans over the PCB’s handling of young talent. Former players like Ahmed Shehzad have repeatedly criticized the board for favoring inconsistent performers over promising youngsters.
However, Iftikhar emphasized that youngsters should earn their place in the national team through consistent performances in domestic cricket. “Let a player succeed in all formats in domestic cricket before talking about him,” he said.
Iftikhar also blamed the media for contributing to the negative atmosphere surrounding Pakistan cricket. “You guys hype someone after one innings and then bring them down to earth,” he said.
The PCB’s decision to overlook domestic performers has raised questions about its commitment to developing the next generation of cricketers. The resignation of Yousuf, a respected former player, further underscores the challenges facing Pakistan cricket.
