PCB’s Turbulent Year: Major Controversies of 2024
2024 proved to be a chaotic year for the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), marred by a series of controversies ranging from leadership upheavals to team disputes. Here’s a recap of the most significant challenges the PCB faced:
Mohsin Naqvi Appointed PCB Chairman
In February, Mohsin Naqvi, the caretaker Chief Minister of Punjab, was appointed as the 37th chairman of the PCB. His appointment faced widespread criticism due to his lack of cricketing credentials, with many accusing the decision of being politically driven rather than merit-based.
PSL 2024 Controversies
The Pakistan Super League (PSL) faced public backlash after spectators were reportedly prohibited from displaying pro-Palestinian banners at matches, igniting outrage on social media over perceived suppression of free expression. Additionally, fans chanting slogans in support of former Prime Minister Imran Khan were arrested, fueling allegations of political interference in sports.
National Selection Committee Restructured
Under Naqvi’s leadership, the National Selection Committee was expanded to seven members with equal voting power to promote democratic decision-making. However, this restructuring was met with skepticism. Controversy intensified with the inclusion of retired players Muhammad Amir and Imad Wasim in the T20 World Cup squad.
Shaheen Afridi’s Captaincy Revoked
The PCB’s decision to remove Shaheen Afridi as captain of Pakistan’s T20 team stirred debate. While the Board cited the need for “strategic changes,” insiders hinted at disagreements between Afridi and the management. Babar Azam was reinstated as captain ahead of the T20 World Cup 2024.
T20 World Cup Debacle
Pakistan’s performance in the T20 World Cup was a major disappointment, with the team failing to progress beyond the group stage and suffering shocking defeats, including one to the United States. Fans and analysts criticized the PCB for poor planning, inadequate preparation, and questionable team selections.
Selectors Dismissed After World Cup Failure
Selectors Wahab Riaz and Abdul Razzaq were dismissed in the aftermath of Pakistan’s T20 World Cup exit. Both defended their roles, blaming broader systemic issues within the PCB for the team’s failures.
Controversial Central Contracts
The PCB sparked outrage with its central contract decisions for the 2024-25 season. Fakhar Zaman’s exclusion—allegedly due to a pro-Babar Azam Tweet—was seen by many as punitive and demoralizing, especially given his contributions to the team.
Haris Rauf’s Contract Dispute
Haris Rauf’s central contract was temporarily terminated after he chose to play in the Big Bash League over a home series. Though the PCB later reinstated his contract following his clarification, the incident underscored miscommunication and strained relations between players and the Board.
Coach Jason Gillespie’s Resignation
Red-ball coach Jason Gillespie resigned, citing “irreconcilable differences” with the PCB. His departure, just before a crucial Test series against South Africa, highlighted internal mismanagement and a lack of strategic coherence within the Board.
India’s Champions Trophy Boycott
Political tensions between India and Pakistan affected cricket yet again, as India refused to play its Champions Trophy matches in Pakistan. The PCB agreed to a hybrid model, allowing India to play its games in the UAE, a compromise that drew mixed reactions.
These controversies have left the PCB facing mounting pressure to reform and regain the trust of players, fans, and stakeholders.
