'It is its own worst enemy': Mickey Arthur exposes reasons behind Pakistan cricket's decline

Former Pakistan head coach Mickey Arthur has spoken out about the decline of Pakistan cricket, highlighting key issues affecting its progress.

Recently, former Pakistan coach Jason Gillespie sparked controversy by calling Aaqib Javed a "clown" and blaming him for stepping away from his role. Now, Mickey Arthur has supported Gillespie’s claims, adding his perspective on the state of Pakistan cricket.

"Pakistan cricket keeps shooting itself in the foot. It is its own worst enemy," Arthur stated. He criticised the management, saying that cricket in the country is driven by personal agendas rather than long-term planning. "Jason Gillespie and Gary Kirsten could have taken Pakistan cricket forward, but they were removed," he added.

Arthur also praised Gillespie, describing him as an exceptional coach and a great human being. "Gillespie is an outstanding coach. Pakistan cricket continues to harm itself. There is a huge pool of talented players in the country, and they now have resources. Young talent is abundant with incredible skills. Yet, the team remains in chaos, which is truly unfortunate," he remarked.

Further highlighting the internal struggles, he said,  "Pakistan had hired top-quality coaches who could have taken them forward, but then the system that weakens everything in Pakistan cricket came into motion."

Last year, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) appointed Gillespie and Kirsten as head coaches for the red- and white-ball teams, respectively. However, both resigned after losing their authority in team selection.

Mickey Arthur served as Pakistan's head coach from 2016 to 2019, during which Pakistan, under his guidance and Sarfaraz Ahmed's captaincy, won the ICC Champions Trophy.