Mohammad Yousuf demands end to political interference in Pakistan cricket
The former Test cricketer calls for major overhaul after India’s pathetic defeat
By Nawaz Gohar ; Former Pakistan batting great Mohammad Yousuf has called for an immediate end to political interference in the country’s cricket structure, describing the current state of affairs as the “darkest phase” in Pakistan’s cricket history.
In a strongly worded statement, Yousuf criticised both the national squad and the cricket administration, urging authorities to remove what he termed “incompetent individuals” not only from key administrative posts but also from around the team environment.
He said watching the national team struggle has been deeply painful and stressed that meaningful reform can no longer be delayed.
According to Yousuf, Pakistan cannot rebuild a strong and respected side unless political influence and personal interests are completely eliminated from cricket affairs.
He warned that without merit-based decisions and professional management, the team would continue to drift away from the standards that once made Pakistan a formidable force in world cricket.
Earlier, in a post on X (formerly Twitter), Yousuf had expressed serious concern over the team’s recent performances and the declining form of senior players.
He openly remarked that the time of established names such as Babar Azam, Shaheen Shah Afridi and Shadab Khan may have passed, arguing that the team now requires fresh performers with hunger and passion to restore national pride.
His comments came a day after India defeated Pakistan by 61 runs in a crucial T20 World Cup group match to qualify for the Super Eight stage, intensifying scrutiny of the national side.
