PCB asks cricket fraternity to support team after criticism on World Cup performance

LAHORE: The Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) on Thursday issued a statement in support of captain Babar Azam and team management that have been under severe criticism by former cricketers following three back-to-back losses at the World Cup.

While acknowledging the “emotions and sentiments” of fans, the board hoped that the cricketing fraternity and fans would continue supporting the team in India's  “challenging environment”.

“The national team still has four crucial matches remaining in the round-robin stage, and the PCB is optimistic that the team will regroup, overcome the setbacks and perform positively and effectively in the upcoming fixtures,” said the sport’s governing body in Pakistan.

On the media scrutiny, the PCB stated that “successes and defeats are part of the game”.

“Captain Babar Azam and Chief Selector Inzamam-ul-Haq were given freedom and support in forming the squad for the ICC World Cup 2023,” said the PCB.

The board also stated that in the future it would “make decisions in the best interest of Pakistan cricket based on the team's performances in the World Cup”.

“At present, the PCB encourages fans, former players and stakeholders to rally behind the team as they strive to make a triumphant comeback in the mega-event,” said the PCB.

The Green Shirts stand in fifth position on the points table after having suffered defeat at the hands of Afghanistan, Australia, and India, with them needing to win all remaining matches for a chance to qualify for the semi-finals of ICC's marquee event.

Pakistan now face South Africa at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai on October 27, Friday. The Proteas have been a formidable side in the mega tournament, winning four out of the five matches they’ve played.

After suffering three consecutive defeats, the morale within the Pakistan camp was a point of concern.