Islamabad (Shakil Shaikh): In 2019, Pakistan’s cricket scene was marred by a series of missteps and controversies that have since sparked widespread concern. At the heart of the issue was a misplaced, unrealistic constitutional framework that stifled talent and suppressed the development of domestic cricket, particularly in lesser-known outfits.
Key figures, appointed with 100% nominations and lacking cricket administration expertise, took charge of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB). Their focus was more on personal cult and media attraction than on nurturing the sport. This led to a lack of investment in cricket infrastructure and operations, resulting in a heavy top structure that squandered funds.
The closure of self-sustaining departmental teams, an undemocratic system, and the virtual wiping out of grassroots cricket for a prolonged period further exacerbated the situation. Amateurs were empowered to handle complex affairs, leading to wrong priorities in the Future Tour Program (FTP) and indiscipline in cricket administration.
From September 2018 to 2022, the Patron’s frequent interventions in PCB matters signaled a troubling trend. Misrepresentation in the International Cricket Council (ICC) for four years and the tenure of ‘Joker Raja’ added to the chaos. Raja’s approach involved drop-in pitches, the Pakistan Junior League (PJL), wasteful spending, an egoistic attitude, and investment in misguided projects, all of which obstructed players’ progress and failed to utilize the High-Performance Center (HPC). The first-class and one-day structures, along with grassroots cricket, suffered greatly.
The Ministry’s intervention in board matters and the disregard for Najam Sethi’s vision for cricket’s uplift and growth also contributed to the decline. Zaka Ashraf, a non-graduate with political affiliations and little cricket knowledge, was controversially given charge of the PCB, turning it into an employment exchange for the incompetent.
THe players and coaching staff were demoralized, and Zaka’s lack of understanding in cricket diplomacy, domestic cricket, and board corporate affairs only worsened the situation. His son, Khan Muhammad, allegedly exerted undue influence behind the scenes. The Zaka-led Management Committee (MC) was criticized for being packed with political allies and friends, leading to harassment of players and board staff, rigged regional and district elections, and the denial of rights to players and stakeholders.
The domestic cricket structure was described as the worst, run by naive individuals. Under Zaka’s leadership, the focus on wrong priorities, strategies, and direction became a hallmark. Corruption and fund leakages were rampant, harming Pakistan’s biggest cricketing brand, the Pakistan Super League (PSL).
The period from 2018 to 2022 saw a dramatic decline in the standards of Pakistan cricket, plagued by mismanagement, political interference, and a lack of strategic direction, casting a shadow over the future of this beloved sport in the country.
– The writer is an ex-member Board of Governors, PCB and President of Regional Cricket Association Islamabad.
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