Former Pakistan cricket captain and star all-rounder Shahid Afridi has once again voiced his concerns about the state of cricket in the country. Speaking on a private TV channel, Afridi made several important remarks regarding coaching roles, player selection, and the integrity of grassroots cricket in Pakistan.
Afridi Declines PCB Contract, Focuses on Grassroots Development
Afridi made it clear that he is not seeking any contract from the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). He emphasized that his primary goal is to work at the grassroots level rather than hold an official coaching or managerial position within the national team setup.
I have always said that whenever you need me, I am ready to work at the grassroots level,Afridi stated, highlighting his commitment to developing young talent rather than engaging in administrative roles.
Muhammad Yousuf’s Role at the National Cricket Academy
Afridi also shared his perspective on Muhammad Yousuf’s coaching role, suggesting that the legendary batsman should not be assigned to the Pakistan national team but rather be utilized at the National Cricket Academy (NCA).
Muhammad Yousuf’s services are needed not with the Pakistani team but at the National Cricket Academy, where he can work with the batsmen on their techniques and teach them, Afridi remarked.
He stressed that former players should focus on improving the techniques of upcoming cricketers at the domestic level rather than seeking coaching positions with the national squad.
Criticism of Ex-Players Seeking Coaching Jobs
Afridi expressed his disappointment over former players actively seeking coaching or managerial positions within the Pakistani team.
I don’t understand why our stars need coaching or positions with the Pakistan team. They should be working on grassroots cricket and producing quality players instead, he said.
He believes that focusing on domestic and youth cricket development is more crucial than obtaining high-profile coaching roles, which may not always contribute to long-term cricketing success.
Concerns Over Corruption in Youth Cricket
One of Afridi’s most hard-hitting statements was regarding corruption in youth cricket selections. He alleged that some regional cricket presidents at the U-13, U-16, and U-19 levels accept money from players in exchange for selection, which he believes is damaging the future of Pakistan cricket.
If the presidents of the regions at the U-13, U-16, and U-19 levels take money from the players and give them a chance to play on their recommendation, then where will cricket go from here? When you are not providing justice to the child from the bottom, what results are you expecting?Afridi questioned.
This statement sheds light on the long-standing issues of favoritism and corruption in Pakistan’s domestic cricket structure, which have hindered the development of genuine talent.
A Call for Fair and Merit-Based Selection
Afridi called for an overhaul of the selection process at the grassroots level to ensure that deserving young players get a fair chance based on merit rather than influence or financial power.
If we do not fix our domestic cricket and ensure fair selection, then we cannot expect our national team to perform consistently on the international stage,Afridi warned.
Afridi’s Vision for the Future of Pakistan Cricket
Shahid Afridi has been vocal about his vision for Pakistan cricket, which revolves around merit-based selections, grassroots development, and ethical leadership in the sport. His remarks serve as a wake-up call for the PCB and other cricketing authorities to address these critical issues and take corrective measures to safeguard the future of cricket in Pakistan.
With Afridi’s continued advocacy for fair play and youth development, it remains to be seen whether the authorities will take action to implement his suggestions. However, one thing is certain: his passion for the game and his commitment to seeing Pakistan cricket flourish remain unwavering.
