PakistanA crushing defeat by 61 runs. India In t20 world cup 2026 The group-stage clash at the R Premadasa Stadium has been sharply criticized by the former great fast bowler. -Shoaib Akhtarwho launched a scathing attack on Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) And its leadership.
Speaking after the high-voltage encounter, Akhtar minced no words as he questioned the direction of Pakistan cricket and decision-making at the top. His comments, widely broadcast on television and digital platforms, have further intensified an already ongoing debate about accountability within the board and team.
Shoaib Akhtar raised questions on the leadership of PCB Chairman Mohsin Naqvi
Without directly naming him first, Akhtar’s criticism was clearly aimed at the PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The former fast bowler expressed serious doubts over whether the current leadership of the board has the vision and capability required to lead Pakistan cricket through turbulent times.
He argued that appointing individuals to important administrative roles without adequate cricket understanding could have harmful consequences. According to Akhtar, leadership at the top plays a decisive role in shaping the team culture, performance standards and long-term planning.
In a strongly worded statement, Akhtar suggested that giving key responsibilities to people who lack the necessary expertise inevitably leads to organizational decline. His comments were not limited to just one defeat but reflected wider concerns about systemic issues within Pakistan cricket.
“Now a man doesn’t even know he is the president of the Pakistan Cricket Board. How will the team run now? You are saying a man, you have made him a superstar, he can’t win a single match. You have made him a star who can’t win a single match for a living. Brother, when you make these kinds of stars, when you pick them, when you pick them, you will have only this problem. But then, the point is that if you see, you know what, the biggest crime in the world Is the biggest crime in the world that you give a big job to an incompetent person? Akhtar said on ABP News.
Senior players on target
Akhtar also focused his attention on Pakistan’s senior cricketers, and questioned the continued faith in experienced names who failed to rise to the occasion. He pointed out that repeated poor performances in marquee matches cannot be ignored indefinitely.
Prominent personalities against India like Babar AzamShaheen Afridi And Shadab Khan Struggled to make an impact. His inability to perform in one of the most anticipated fixtures of the tournament has intensified scrutiny on team selection and leadership dynamics. Akhtar seemed particularly dismayed by what he described as the creation of “untouchable stars”. He warned that elevating players from accountability could lead to complacency and weaken the competitive spirit within the team.
“When you give any big job to an incompetent and ignorant person, he will ruin the country. He will bring down any organization. The example is in front of you, you are intelligent enough to understand.” Akhtar concluded.
India’s dominance once again
The defeat has further escalated Pakistan’s recent struggles against India in global tournaments. In front of a packed Colombo crowd, India outclassed their rivals in all departments – from disciplined bowling to calculated batting under pressure. Pakistan’s batting faltered during the chase, while their bowling unit failed to stop India’s aggressive top order. The one-sided nature of the competition frustrated fans and intensified calls for structural reforms.
