Miandad attributes Babar Azam's resignation to 'political influence' within the PCB

By M Muzamil Shami

The right-handed batsman stepped down as captain in all three formats for the national team after Pakistan's exit from the World Cup.

Javed Miandad, the iconic batsman from Pakistan (on the left), pictured alongside former captain Babar Azam. — AFP/File

KARACHI: Javed Miandad, a seasoned cricketer, strongly criticized the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), expressing dismay over political interference and condemning the board for its perceived unjust treatment of the now-former captain, Babar Azam.

Miandad voiced his concerns about individuals with no cricketing background making decisions, attributing the negative consequences to political influence within the PCB. In an interview with Geo News, the cricket legend asserted that the removal of Babar as captain was unjust, emphasizing the need for players to be respected and honored. Miandad suggested that a robust managerial support system should have been in place to assist Babar in becoming a stronger captain.

Expressing regret over the treatment of Babar, Miandad pointed out flaws in the right-handed batter's strategy, particularly his approach to facing bowlers from the crease. While acknowledging Babar's talent, Miandad recommended a slight adjustment in his batting technique, specifically in body positioning.

Miandad expressed readiness to offer advice to Babar, highlighting the importance of rectifying mistakes in the nets for building confidence. He cited the willingness of past cricketers like Younis Khan and Mohammad Yousuf to learn, contrasting it with what he perceives as a lack of interest among today's players.

The veteran cricketer criticized the appointments of recently retired players to key roles, questioning the selection of Wahab Riaz as chief selector over more experienced candidates like Iqbal Qasim, Mushtaq Mohammad, Sadiq Mohammad, Haroon Rashid, and Shoaib Mohammad. Miandad expressed his preference for capable individuals for the betterment of Pakistan cricket.

Without explicitly naming him, Miandad took a dig at PCB Management Committee Chairman Zaka Ashraf, questioning his cricketing background and implying that cricket affairs were being managed by individuals with interests in industries like sugar mills.