Former England captain Nasser Hussain has launched a strong criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), accusing the governing body of making an already difficult situation even worse. His comments come amid growing controversy surrounding Pakistan cricket and the board’s handling of players and team management during the ongoing Test series against England.
Pakistan’s recent problems intensified after their heavy 194-run defeat to England at Lord’s last week. In the aftermath of that loss, the PCB took sweeping action, removing seven players along with members of the coaching and support staff. Among those affected was head coach Sarfaraz Ahmed.
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The board’s actions have sparked considerable debate, with questions being raised about whether such drastic measures are the right way to address Pakistan’s struggles. Former Pakistan captain Misbah-ul-Haq also resigned from his position as a selector following the mass sackings.
Hussain, speaking on the Sky Sports Cricket Podcast, said he was frustrated by the direction in which Pakistan cricket has been heading. However, he made a distinction between criticising a team’s performances and ridiculing the country’s cricket administration.
“I don’t think after Headingley that the world was laughing at Pakistan,” Hussain said, explaining that his earlier criticism came from frustration at the team’s performances and its decline as a major cricketing nation.
He then turned his attention towards the PCB’s latest decisions.
“What they have done now is make them a laughing stock. They have made it worse,” Hussain said.
One of the biggest controversies currently surrounding Pakistan cricket involves opener Imam-ul-Haq. The batter was accused of faking an injury on the opening day of the first Test, meaning he did not bat in either innings.
The allegations have created further tension between the player and the board, particularly after comments from PCB director of high performance Aaqib Javed.
Hussain strongly questioned the manner in which the matter was handled publicly. According to him, players should receive greater protection and support from their respective boards, particularly when injury-related issues are involved.
“I cannot believe how a director of high performance can go on telly, rightly or wrongly, and throw a player under the bus,” Hussain said.
He argued that there should be a more professional approach to communicating a player’s medical status.
Hussain pointed out that touring teams generally provide straightforward updates when a player is injured, rather than allowing the matter to become a public controversy.
“The whole handling of the Imam situation is ridiculous. You have to protect your players a little bit,” he added.
Pakistan’s cricket administration is now under increased scrutiny, with its recent decisions drawing criticism from former players and prominent figures in the international cricket community.
The PCB, led by chairman Mohsin Naqvi, will face pressure to restore stability as Pakistan continue their England tour. For Hussain, however, the immediate concern is not simply the team’s results but the way the country’s cricketing system is dealing with its players and setbacks.
