Pakistan Cricket Faces Turmoil: Akmal and Afridi Demand Overhaul After Bangladesh Series Loss
March 16, 2026
Afridi accused selectors of fielding youngsters with limited first-class exposure, sidelining experienced ODI performers, and lacking a coherent captaincy strategy across formats.
Pakistan’s recent performance crisis continued as Kamran Akmal blasted the team after a 2-1 ODI series loss to Bangladesh in Dhaka, saying the side has deteriorated and urging accountability at the PCB.
Even though there was a mathematical chance to reach the T20 World Cup semi-finals, Pakistan collapsed in the tournament, marking a fourth straight ICC event without a semi-final.
Akmal and others have criticized the pattern of awarding caps without a coherent plan, calling for real changes at the selection level.
Afridi voiced his criticisms in a candid social-media video, specifically targeting selectors’ judgments and leadership decisions.
The Mohsin Naqvi controversy and broader PCB governance turmoil added pressure as fans and former players called for more transparent cricket governance.
He argued the committee overemphasizes “surgery,” promoting inexperienced players over seasoned ones and destabilizing team performance.
Senior ODI performers were reportedly sidelined in the name of rebuilding, raising questions about selection and direction.
Akmal provocatively asked whether the team plans to steal the ICC trophy, underscoring concerns about long-term progression and leadership.
He questioned Pakistan’s ability to win major trophies, framing it as a challenge to national cricket leadership and direction.
Akmal referenced the alleged non-return of the Asia Cup 2025 trophy by Mohsin Naqvi, claiming it remains in his office and India has not accepted it.
The Bangladesh series followed a poor recent T20 World Cup showing, which included a group-stage exit to India, a washout with New Zealand, a narrow loss to England, and a five-run win over Sri Lanka to stay alive in the Super 8s.
Summary based on 14 sources
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Sources

The Times Of India • Mar 16, 2026
‘Pakistan becoming an associate team’: Ahmed Shehzad slams Shaheen Afridi, management after Bangladesh loss
The Times Of India • Mar 16, 2026
‘Treat Pakistan matches like a comedy series’: Ex-cricketer slams team after series loss to Bangladesh
The Times Of India • Mar 16, 2026
'In the name of surgery…': Shahid Afridi blasts Pakistan selectors for dropping Babar Azam & Co.