Shoaib Akhtar Backtracks After Calling PCB Chief Mohsin Naqvi “Incompetent”; Clarifies Remarks on Pakistani TV

Former Pakistan fast bowler Shoaib Akhtar made a swift reversal of his controversial remarks against Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chairman Mohsin Naqvi, less than a day after calling him “incompetent and illiterate” during an appearance on Indian television.

Akhtar, popularly known as the Rawalpindi Express, had sharply criticized Naqvi while speaking on ABP News, questioning his suitability to lead Pakistan cricket. However, in a subsequent appearance on Pakistan’s ARY News, the ex-pacer attempted to clarify his comments, claiming they were taken out of context.

Shoaib Akhtar Says Comments Were “Misunderstood”

During the ARY News broadcast, Akhtar insisted that his use of the words “incompetent” and “jaahil” (illiterate) was not directed personally at Mohsin Naqvi but referred to broader administrative issues affecting Pakistan cricket.

He explained that his remarks were aimed at systemic shortcomings within cricket governance rather than at Naqvi individually. According to Akhtar, he believes Naqvi has good intentions for Pakistan cricket but may not be receiving the right guidance.

The former speedster appeared uncomfortable while clarifying his stance and suggested that portions of his earlier comments had been misrepresented.

Admits Frustration Over Policy U-Turn

While softening his earlier criticism, Akhtar admitted he was disappointed with Naqvi over a separate issue — the PCB’s shift in stance regarding a proposed boycott against India during the T20 World Cup discussions.

Akhtar said the cricketing community initially supported a strong position but felt let down when that stance changed. He suggested that he should have been consulted before such a reversal was made.

What Akhtar Originally Said About Mohsin Naqvi

In his earlier appearance on ABP News, Akhtar openly questioned Naqvi’s credentials to run the PCB. He argued that placing someone without relevant experience in such a key role could damage the institution.

He compared the situation to appointing someone unfamiliar with media operations to head a television channel, emphasizing that leadership roles require domain knowledge and competence.

Akhtar had also remarked that assigning major responsibilities to an “incompetent” individual is among the gravest mistakes an organization can make.

Strong Views on Babar Azam and Shaheen Afridi

Beyond administrative issues, Akhtar also shared blunt assessments of Pakistan’s top players following their performance against India.

He suggested that Babar Azam is better suited to opening the innings rather than batting in the middle order, adding that the T20 format may not fully suit his natural style of play.

Akhtar also questioned Shaheen Afridi’s current fitness, claiming the left-arm pacer is not bowling at his usual pace. Additionally, he criticized team selection decisions, including the inclusion of Shadab Khan, stating that Pakistan appears outmatched against India’s evolving brand of cricket.

“Everyone Is Responsible”

In a broader reflection, Akhtar said the challenges facing Pakistan cricket cannot be blamed on one individual alone. He included himself, the cricket board, and the media in sharing responsibility for promoting the wrong players and failing to strengthen grassroots infrastructure.

He warned that without long-term planning and structural reforms, Pakistan cricket risks falling further behind international standards.