Mohammad Hafeez blasts PCB, praises Saim Ayub, and has advice for Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan
Former Pakistan all-rounder Mohammad Hafeez made headlines on April 16 with a candid fan interaction on X, criticising political interference in the Pakistan Cricket Board and backing both rising stars and senior players as the national side navigates turbulent times.
During an open Q&A with fans, Hafeez addressed multiple issues facing Pakistan cricket, including board appointments, team selection, emerging players and the national team's direction.
Responding to a question about political influence in cricketing decisions, Hafeez remarked, 'The PCB chairman's appointment is always based on political background… I don't know about the rest,' hinting at the entrenched politicisation of leadership roles within the board.
PCB chairman appointment is always based on political background so… I don't know the rest https://t.co/ft3mdHOvBY — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) April 16, 2025
On his own absence from coaching or mentoring roles within the PCB, the former team director replied with a cheeky nod to political phrasing: 'M minus one at the moment, and M loving it.'
Hafeez praised young batters Abdullah Shafique and Saim Ayub, calling them future stars. 'Abdullah Shafiq & Saim Ayub are future of Pakistan cricket. May they stay away from all distractions,' he posted.
Abdullah Shafiq & Saim Ayub are future of Pakistan cricket. May they stay away from all distractions https://t.co/8cCvKMtsfS — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) April 16, 2025
Addressing Pakistan's inconsistent form, Hafeez reaffirmed his unwavering support. 'It hurts as a fan when Pakistan doesn't do well, but I support them unconditionally and always want the team to succeed.'
Asked about Babar Azam and Mohammad Rizwan's place in the squad, Hafeez defended their value. 'Babar and Rizwan are quality players… They just need to upgrade their approach and skills to become more impactful. They have the talent to do that.'
Look @babarazam258 & @iMRizwanPak are quality players & have played a super role as players to win matches for Pakistan. All they need to upgrade their approach & skills to become more impactful. They have talent to do that. https://t.co/AMnnH031lL — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) April 16, 2025
In response to recent mockery of Rizwan's English-speaking skills, Hafeez responded firmly. 'Sad to see people shaming a star for his language ability. Very sad,' he wrote.
When asked what advice he would give to Babar Azam, Hafeez offered a concise note: 'Keep learning.'
Looking ahead to the ICC T20 World Cup 2026, Hafeez named Saim Ayub among his picks for the opening slot, underscoring his belief in the youngster's long-term potential.
Saim Ayub is one of them https://t.co/MHdPjv7KII — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) April 16, 2025
The professor also had some choice words for the much-maligned selection committee of the PCB, criticising their approach to player selection.
He stated that Pakistan cricket, as a whole, need to promote all-rounders.
Unfortunately our system at selection times don't promote all round ability & take trials only for specialist roles. We need to promote more all rounders if available https://t.co/RcatyCgc7Z — Mohammad Hafeez (@MHafeez22) April 16, 2025
Hafeez has been an outspoken figure on Pakistan cricket ever since his international retirement in 2021. He made headlines with his comments on 90s players and their criticism of current Pakistani team, claiming they left 'no legacy' behind.
The session offered fans a glimpse into Hafeez's unfiltered views, showing both his humour and concern for the direction of Pakistan cricket.
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