Pakistani cricket is facing profound turmoil following a sweeping series of changes within the national setup. The drastic overhaul has triggered sharp criticism from former players who describe the current state of the sport as an unprecedented crisis.
Leadership changes at the Pakistan Cricket Board have resulted in several high-profile departures. Head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed and bowling coach Umar Gul were dismissed and sent home alongside seven players. In a parallel development, former captain Misbah-ul-Haq stepped down from his position on the selection panel and relinquished his duties as a batting consultant at the National Cricket Academy in Lahore.
The shake-up has also prompted a restructuring of coaching responsibilities across formats. White-ball coaches Mike Hesson and Ashley Noffke have been asked to step in and take charge of the red-ball team. These sudden shifts reflect an urgent attempt by administrators to reset the team's trajectory following a period of intense pressure and mounting losses.
The drastic measures have drawn intense reactions from former national team representatives. Observers and former athletes have voiced deep frustration over the constant instability plaguing the administration and the dressing room. Critics argue that frequent alterations to the coaching staff and player roster undermine long-term planning and team cohesion on the international stage.
Pakistan has historically experienced cycles of administrative restructuring following poor performances in major international competitions. However, the simultaneous exit of multiple senior coaching figures and key players highlights the severity of the current internal challenges. The board now faces the difficult task of stabilizing the squad and restoring confidence among supporters ahead of upcoming bilateral engagements.
Reporting based on coverage first published by The Times of India. Read the original report at The Times of India.
