Weak domestic structure major cause for Pakistan cricket’s decline

Pakistan cricket’s recurring struggles on the international stage, from the Asia Cup to the recent Test defeat against England, continue to draw nationwide frustration. Yet, after the initial outcry, little seems to change as the same problems surface time and again.

In the wake of Pakistan’s crushing defeat in the first Test against England, the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) announced plans to restructure the national selection committee—an action that appears more about pacifying fans than addressing the deeper issues plaguing Pakistan cricket.

The real cause of the decline lies in Pakistan’s weak domestic structure, exacerbated by politically motivated decisions rather than cricket-focused reforms.

The recent trend of preparing flat pitches, as seen in Multan, reflects a defensive mindset. Instead of opting for sporting tracks that would benefit Pakistan’s pace attack, the management has often chosen safer, less effective strategies.

Pakistan cricket urgently needs strong cricketing brains at the helm, not political minds, to steer the team in the right direction. A key factor behind the current crisis is the poor domestic system that stems from non-independent associations shaped by frequent, self-serving amendments to the PCB constitution.

The ban on departmental cricket during Ehsan Mani’s tenure as PCB chairman dealt a severe blow to Pakistan cricket. Thousands of players, young and old, were left jobless when the system was dismantled under the directives of then-Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Unlike such countries as Australia and England, where social security systems provide for the unemployed, Pakistan lacks such economic support. This makes it crucial to maintain a system that offers both employment and competitive cricket opportunities. While departmental cricket has been partially restored with recent government changes, the damage done by its closure remains significant.

For Pakistan cricket to regain its former glory, the PCB must establish a reliable, independent, and democratic domestic structure. Countries like Australia, England, and India have independent cricket boards and associations that operate fairly, which is why their domestic competitions are near international standards.

In contrast, Pakistan’s domestic tournaments like the Quaid-e-Azam Trophy and Patron’s Trophy fall far behind due to political interference in the selection process. To rectify this, the PCB must conduct fair elections for cricket associations, ensuring that only genuine, functioning clubs participate. Reforming the domestic system is vital for raising the standard of Pakistan cricket and nurturing a world-class team.