Legendary fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar has shared his thoughts on how he would fix Pakistan cricket if given the responsibility by the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). The Pakistan team has been under heavy scrutiny after their disappointing performances in the ongoing Asia Cup 2025, especially their losses to arch-rivals India. Akhtar, speaking on the ‘Game on Hai’ show, was asked by fellow cricketer Shoaib Malik how he would approach the situation if the PCB asked him to step in.
Akhtar’s response was both surprising and insightful, emphasizing a collaborative approach rather than taking individual control. He expressed his belief in teamwork and logic, stating that instead of demanding sole power, he would prefer a diverse selection committee to guide him.
“I would rather have a 20-member selection committee. I will take their advice: ‘What do you guys say? Tell me,'” Akhtar said, suggesting that collective input would be essential in rebuilding the team. This collaborative approach was a departure from the norm of individual power struggles often seen in the management of cricket teams.
Akhtar’s Approach: Confidence and Backing for Players
Akhtar also discussed the current state of young players in Pakistan, drawing parallels between Pakistan’s Saim Ayub and India’s Abhishek Sharma. According to Akhtar, Ayub seemed “scared” of failure and lacked the same backing that Indian players, like Sharma, receive. He emphasized the importance of instilling confidence in young cricketers, especially when they’re on the international stage.
“If I am given three years and handed the command, the children (players) must be given confidence. ‘Saim (Ayub), son, go play. Abhishek (Sharma) has a license, you also play. No problem, you won’t get dropped if you get out,’” Akhtar said, highlighting the need for players to feel secure in their roles without the fear of being dropped after one bad performance.
In his opinion, the key to fixing Pakistan cricket is creating an environment where players are supported and allowed to express themselves freely. Akhtar’s comments shed light on the mental barriers that current Pakistani cricketers face and propose a solution rooted in confidence and mentorship.
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