Former Pakistan captain Rashid Latif raised concerns about the selection process of Pakistan’s cricket teams, saying meritocracy can only win if leadership is based on merit.
His remarks come after Pakistan’s unfortunate loss to India at the ICC Champions Trophy 2025 group stage.
Speaking at the post-match analysis show, LATIF criticized the Pakistan Cricket Committee (PCB) for failing to establish a selection system based on performance rather than personal connections.
He questioned the team’s calmness and decision-making, highlighting the lack of a professional spinner and a reliable opening batman.
“This isn’t about one bad game. We have long said that this team has not been selected for merit. If the chairman himself isn’t, how can the team have merits? Can you do it?” Latif said. He emphasized that systematic issues start at the top and are being fooled by players.
The former wicketkeeper also referenced past choice debates and struggles in major tournaments in Pakistan, noting that similar mistakes have been made repeatedly.
“It’s not just this match. We have failed to progress past group stages in consecutive tournaments. We look at how our teams can perform if their leadership is not based on cricket knowledge. How can you expect it?”
Former Pakistani pacer Mohammad Meer reflected similar sentiments and expressed disappointment at the team’s performance. Amir, who was part of Pakistan’s 2017 Champions Trophy team, lamented the lack of accountability within the system.
“When you bring in people who are not qualified for the role, the outcome is always disappointing,” he said.
The defeat has stepped up scrutiny of Pakistan’s team selection process as analysts and former players seek immediate reforms. It remains to be seen whether the PCB will address these concerns, but pressure is growing to address the long-standing issues of Pakistan cricket.