PCB needs to be independent: Afridi calls for no government interference in cricket
Amidst the political turmoil in Pakistan, cricket is bound to suffer from the country's government asserting its control in sports affairs. The change in the ruling party is likely to shake up the scenario within the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB); however, Shahid Afridi is against the policy.
Former Pakistan cricketer calls for no government interference in cricketing matters and is of the view that this practice leaves a poor impact on the team's performance.
As the power no longer lies in the hands of Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), it is likely that the current PCB chairman Ramiz Raja, who was brought on board by the World Cup-winning captain, will be sacked.
"I feel the PCB should be independent from the government. The appointment of the chairman and CEO of the board should not be managed by the government," Afridi said as quoted by The Indian Express.
"PCB needs to be totally independent and have its own in-house election system with no interference from the government functionaries," he added.
Pakistan's Prime Minister (PM) automatically becomes the Patron-in-Chief of the PCB and has a significant say in handling cricketing matters in the country. In Pakistan, the PM chooses two candidates for the position of chairman, and one of them is elected by the general body.
Further, Afridi cited the government's involvement in cricket as a reason behind the slow progress of the sport in the country.
"That is why Pakistan cricket faces problems. I think that departments have a big role to play in Pakistan domestic cricket, but if the board has introduced a new system, it should be given proper time to be tested out now," the 42-year-old stated.
Meanwhile, Pakistan decks up to host the West Indies for a three-match ODI series scheduled in June.
 "Aayush Mahajan")
