Shoaib Akhtar Attempts Awkward Retraction After Blasting PCB Chairman
Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar found himself in the spotlight once again this week, following a controversial and seemingly contradictory series of statements regarding Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi. The ex-pacer, known for his outspoken nature, initially launched a scathing attack on Naqvi during an appearance on an Indian news channel, only to attempt a delicate and fumbling retraction less than 24 hours later on Pakistani television.
Clarifying Harsh Words on Pakistani Television
Speaking on ARY News, Akhtar insisted that his harsh remarks were not directed at Mohsin Naqvi personally but rather at the broader state of cricket administration in Pakistan. "The words 'incompetent and jaahil (illiterate)' that I used were not meant for Mohsin Naqvi bhai. It looked like I said those words for him," Akhtar explained, appearing to fumble repeatedly during his explanation.
He elaborated that his criticism was aimed at the top brass running international cricket, suggesting that the television channel had twisted his comments. "The incompetency topic I spoke about was from a broader perspective: that such a person can destroy any institution. My hint was not towards Mohsin Naqvi but the top brass that is running international cricket. But the television channel twisted it," he said.
Akhtar added that in the same program, he had also defended Naqvi, stating, "I also said that we should not say wrong things about Mohsin Naqvi, he is a good guy. He wants to help Pakistan cricket but does not get the right advice."
Frustration Over Naqvi's U-Turn on India Boycott
The former pacer clarified that his frustration with Naqvi was specifically related to the PCB chief's sudden reversal on the boycott stance against India during the T20 World Cup. "I am angry with him as he took a stand but did not stick with it. The entire community was with him. He could have asked me about taking the U-turn," Akhtar stated, highlighting the perceived inconsistency in leadership.
Original Criticism on Indian News Channel
Akhtar's initial comments on ABP News had been far more blunt and direct. He openly questioned Naqvi's suitability for the PCB chairman role, drawing an analogy to illustrate his point. "If you make me the chairman of a channel, how would I know how to run it? Now there is a person who does not know, and he is the chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board. So what can be done now? How will the team function like this?" he asked rhetorically.
He went on to make a sweeping statement, declaring, "Do you know what the biggest crime in the world is? Giving a big job to an incompetent and illiterate person." This strong language set the stage for the subsequent retraction attempt.
Assessment of Pakistan's Cricket Team and Infrastructure
Beyond the controversy surrounding Naqvi, Akhtar also weighed in on the performance and selection of Pakistan's star players following their defeat to India in the T20 World Cup. He provided a critical analysis of key figures:
- Shaheen Afridi: "Shaheen is not fit. He is not able to bowl over 125 kmph."
- Babar Azam: "Babar Azam is not going to deliver until you play him as an opener. He is of no use in the middle order. This format is not made for him."
- Shadab Khan: "Shadab is also an unusual choice, I do not understand it."
Akhtar concluded with a stark comparison, stating, "I do not think we are compatible against India. They are playing a cricket that is 50 years ahead of us."
Broader Blame for Pakistan Cricket's State
In a final sweeping assessment, Akhtar attributed the current challenges in Pakistan cricket to a collective failure. "Everyone is to be blamed for this – myself, the cricket board, media, everyone. We picked the wrong people, made them stars. We did not invest in cricketing infrastructure," he lamented, calling for systemic improvements to revive the sport in the country.
