ISLAMABAD: Iceland Cricket has taken a sharp dig at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) over its recent changes to the national team.
The post appeared to target PCB chairman Mohsin Naqvi, who has come under fire following Pakistan’s disappointing performance in the ongoing Test series against England.
Pakistan made sweeping changes to the squad after losing the first two Tests against England. Following the second defeat, the PCB also decided to send seven players back home. The move prompted a sarcastic response from Iceland Cricket on social media.
“We are going to launch a new cricketing challenge for coastal cricketers. Clear an iceberg and win an all-expenses-paid educational trip to meet Mohsin Naqvi and learn about selection strategy. The trip can be one-way if you wish,” Iceland Cricket posted.
The jibe came amid growing frustration among Pakistan fans and former cricketers over the team’s performance in the Test series against England.
Naqvi, meanwhile, has defended Pakistan cricket against the criticism. Speaking to the media in London, he rejected claims that the country’s cricket was going through its worst phase. He also hit back at critics, saying that people who had achieved nothing in life were questioning the Pakistan team.
“A team’s standard cannot be judged by just a few defeats,” Naqvi said. He pointed to Pakistan’s progress in the ODI format, noting that the team had moved from eighth to fifth in the rankings and had won four of its last six ODI series.
Naqvi also claimed that Pakistan’s winning percentage had improved from 24% to 73%. At the same time, he acknowledged that changes to the selection process may be necessary if players fail to deliver on the field.
“Mistakes can happen sometimes, and I take responsibility for them,” he said.
Pakistan are currently 0-2 down in the three-match Test series against England. Former Pakistan players, including Shahid Afridi, Mohammad Yousuf and Rashid Latif, have also criticised the team’s performances.
Naqvi, however, urged patience with the rebuilding process. He said it would be unrealistic to expect a team that was ranked ninth to reach the No. 1 spot in the world within just six months. According to him, rebuilding the side and achieving consistent success will take time.