Intro
Former pacer clarifies remarks amid backlash after India defeat controversy
Colombo
Former Pakistan speedster Shoaib Akhtar has softened his stance against Mohsin Naqvi, a day after lashing out at the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) chief following Pakistan’s 61-run defeat to India in the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup.
Akhtar had earlier described Naqvi as “incompetent and illiterate” after Sunday’s loss in Colombo, remarks that quickly went viral and sparked widespread debate. However, the former pacer clarified that his comments were not personally directed at Naqvi.
“The words ‘incompetent and jaahil’ were not meant for Mohsin Naqvi bhai. My hint was towards the top brass running international cricket. The television channel twisted it,” Akhtar said, adding that Naqvi is a “good guy” who wants to improve Pakistan cricket but may not always receive the right advice.
Akhtar maintained that his frustration stemmed from the reversal of a proposed boycott of the India match. “I am angry with him as he took a stand but did not stick with it. The entire community was with him,” he explained.
The controversy erupted after Pakistan’s heavy defeat extended India’s dominance over their arch-rivals in T20 World Cup meetings. Akhtar had also criticised Babar Azam’s batting position, questioned Shaheen Afridi’s fitness, and raised concerns over Shadab Khan’s selection and Pakistan’s cricketing structure.
His apparent U-turn comes as Pakistan prepare for a must-win clash against Namibia to keep their Super 8 hopes alive. With scrutiny mounting over the team’s performance and administration, Akhtar’s remarks have added another layer of drama to an already turbulent campaign.