Opinion | Pakistan Cricket: A Dying History Under Nepotism, Terrorism, and Corruption

Kashmiri youth, who dream of making a mark in cricket, look up to Indian players as role models. The IPL, with its global appeal, has also influenced young Kashmiri cricketers, inspiring them to pursue the sport at a professional level.

Cricket has long been a passion in Pakistan, a sport that once united the country and produced legends like Imran Khan, Wasim Akram, and Javed Miandad. It was not just a game; it was a force that brought hope and pride to the people. But today, that glory seems like a distant dream. The sport is crumbling under the weight of nepotism, corruption, and terrorism. What was once a symbol of excellence has now become a reflection of the larger issues plaguing the nation.
Pakistan cricket’s downfall didn’t happen overnight. It has been a gradual decline, one marked by mismanagement and a lack of vision. The team that once challenged the best in the world now struggles to maintain consistency. Politics and favoritism have taken precedence over merit, leaving talented young players with no opportunities to shine. Coaches and selectors often prefer players with connections rather than those who have proved themselves on the field. This kind of nepotism has crushed the morale of many aspiring cricketers who dream of wearing the green jersey.
One cannot talk about Pakistan cricket without addressing the role of terrorism and security concerns. Since the attack on the Sri Lankan cricket team in Lahore in 2009, international teams have hesitated to tour Pakistan. This incident not only tarnished the country’s image but also deprived its players of the chance to play in front of home crowds. Cricket thrives on exposure, and without regular international matches on home soil, Pakistan’s players lost the advantage of familiar conditions. They became dependent on the United Arab Emirates as their ‘home ground,’ but no foreign venue can ever replicate the energy and passion of home fans.
Terrorism didn’t just impact cricket infrastructure—it had a psychological impact on the players and the administration. For years, Pakistan was viewed as an unsafe destination for sports, leading to isolation from major cricketing events. Even when teams finally started returning, there was always an air of uncertainty. The Pakistan Super League (PSL) tried to revive domestic cricket, but security issues still loomed large. Players from other countries often hesitated to participate, and those who did demanded hefty security arrangements. This affected the quality of competition, making it clear that Pakistan cricket was no longer the attractive force it once was.
Another major issue that has plagued Pakistan cricket is corruption. Match-fixing scandals have haunted the team for decades. The infamous spot-fixing scandal of 2010, involving Salman Butt, Mohammad Amir, and Mohammad Asif, was a dark chapter in Pakistan’s cricket history. These were talented players, yet they chose the wrong path, prioritizing personal gain over national pride. Despite strict punishments and repeated warnings, the culture of corruption never really disappeared. Every few years, reports of fixing and illegal betting emerge, making it clear that the root problem has not been addressed.
The internal politics of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) is another factor that has driven the sport into decline. Leadership changes are frequent, and each new chairman comes with a new set of ideas, often disregarding the work done by their predecessors. This lack of continuity disrupts the system, leaving players confused and uncertain about their future. Coaches and selectors are hired and fired at an alarming rate, preventing the team from building long-term strategies. Unlike teams like India, England, and Australia, where cricket boards function with stability, Pakistan’s board operates in a state of chaos.
One of the most frustrating aspects of Pakistan cricket is its inability to groom young talent effectively. While the country produces raw talent in abundance, there is no structured system to refine and polish these players. Domestic cricket is in shambles, with poor facilities, low pay, and mismanagement driving many young cricketers away from the sport. Instead of focusing on grassroots development, the PCB often looks for quick fixes, hoping that one or two star players can carry the team. This short-term thinking has resulted in an inconsistent team that can produce brilliant performances one day and collapse completely the next.
The decline of Pakistan cricket is also evident in its performances against top teams. Once known for its unpredictable yet fierce competitiveness, Pakistan now struggles against strong opponents like India, Australia, and England. The gap between Pakistan and these teams has widened, and it is not just about talent—it’s about mindset, discipline, and proper planning. While other teams have invested heavily in technology, sports science, and player fitness, Pakistan has lagged behind. The fitness levels of Pakistani players have often been criticized, and injuries are a common problem. Without a strong support system, the players find it difficult to maintain peak performance.
While Pakistan cricket struggles, Indian cricket has soared to new heights. The Indian Premier League (IPL) has revolutionized the sport, providing a world-class platform for young talent. Indian players are among the fittest and most skilled in the world, thanks to a well-structured domestic system. This stark contrast between the two countries is evident whenever India and Pakistan face off on the field. What was once a competitive rivalry has now become a one-sided affair, with India dominating in recent years.
Despite the challenges, there are still some die-hard cricket fans in Pakistan who believe that the team can rise again. They remember the glory days of the past and hope that the right leadership and vision can bring back the lost charm. But for that to happen, drastic changes are needed. The PCB must prioritize merit over favoritism, strengthen domestic cricket, and invest in long-term player development. Corruption must be eradicated, and security concerns must be addressed to ensure regular international matches in Pakistan. If these issues remain unresolved, Pakistan cricket will continue its downward spiral, becoming nothing more than a nostalgic memory of a bygone era.
In Kashmir, the love for cricket has found a new direction. Many young Kashmiri fans openly support the Indian cricket team, a shift that speaks volumes about the changing landscape. Virat Kohli, MS Dhoni, and Rohit Sharma are household names in Kashmir, and their matches attract massive viewership. The Indian team’s professionalism, discipline, and success have earned them respect even among those who once remained neutral. This admiration goes beyond politics—it is about appreciating excellence. Kashmiri youth, who dream of making a mark in cricket, look up to Indian players as role models. The IPL, with its global appeal, has also influenced young Kashmiri cricketers, inspiring them to pursue the sport at a professional level.
Pakistan cricket is at a crossroads. It can either choose to fix its problems and rebuild or continue on its path of decline. The future of the sport in the country depends on the choices made today. If Pakistan wants to regain its lost status in world cricket, it must learn from the past, embrace reforms, and give cricket the professional management it deserves. Otherwise, it will remain a dying history, remembered only in nostalgic conversations about the legends of the past.
Writer can be reached on syedjahanzeeb2@gmail.com