PCB's biggest controversies of 2024
2024 has been a year of chaos for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), with controversies at every turn. Here are the biggest challenges, from leadership changes to team disputes, that the Board faced this year.
Appointment of Mohsin Naqvi as PCB Chairman
In February, Mohsin Naqvi, who was serving as the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, was appointed the 37th chairman of the PCB. His selection drew criticism from various quarters, primarily because of his limited cricketing background. Critics argued that his appointment was politically motivated rather than based on merit.
PSL 2024 Controversies
Spectators were reportedly barred from bringing pro-Palestinian banners into stadiums, sparking outrage on social media. The PCB faced backlash for its perceived suppression of free expression.
Several fans were arrested for chanting slogans in support of former Prime Minister Imran Khan during matches, raising concerns over political interference.
Restructuring of the National Selection Committee
Under Naqvi's leadership, the PCB revamped the National Selection Committee, increasing its size to seven members with equal voting power. The move was intended to make the decision-making process more democratic but was met with scepticism.
Muhammad Amir and Imad Wasim, who had both retired, were included in the T20 World Cup squad.
Shaheen Afridi's Removal as Captain
The PCB made the controversial decision to remove Shaheen Afridi as the captain of Pakistan's T20 team, citing the need for "strategic changes" and "better team dynamics". But insiders claimed it stemmed from disagreements between Afridi and the management. After his removal, Babar Azam was appointed as captain before the T20 World Cup 2024.
Poor Performance in the T20 World Cup
Pakistan's disappointing performance in the T20 World Cup was one of the year's most spectacular failures. The team failed to progress beyond the group stage, suffering defeats against lower-ranked teams, including the United States. The dismal outcome sparked outrage among fans and analysts, who criticized the PCB for poor planning, inadequate preparation, and flawed team selection.
Dismissal of selectors Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq
Following the T20 World Cup disaster, the PCB dismissed selectors Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq, holding them responsible for the team's failure. Both Riaz and Razzaq defended their tenure, pointing fingers at systemic issues within the PCB.
Controversial central contracts
Yet another controversy sprang up when PCB announced the details of central contracts for the 2024-25 season. Fakhar Zaman was excluded from the central contract following a Tweet in favour of Babar Azam. Many saw this as punitive and demotivating, especially since he had been a key performer for Pakistan in the past.
Termination and reinstatement of Haris Rauf's central contract
Haris Rauf faced a temporary termination of his central contract after opting to play in the Big Bash League instead of a home series. The PCB reinstated his contract after he clarified his position, but the incident highlighted miscommunication and strained player-Board relations.
Resignation of Coach Jason Gillespie
Former Australian cricketer Jason Gillespie resigned as Pakistan's red-ball coach, citing "irreconcilable differences" with the PCB. His departure just before a crucial Test series against South Africa added to the turmoil, with critics pointing to PCB's mismanagement and lack of a cohesive strategy as contributing factors.
India's sabotage of Champions Trophy
Political tension between India and Pakistan spilled over into cricket once again when India refused to play their Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. The PCB agreed to a fusion model, allowing India to play their games in the UAE.