Following their poor performance in the T20 World Cup 2026, the PCB has decided to fine the players ₹5 million each. Former captain Shahid Afridi expressed his displeasure over this move, calling it "small-minded."

Shahid Afridi Slams Pakistan Cricket Board

The Pakistan team's performance in the 2026 T20 World Cup has been disappointing. Criticism of the team has intensified after their Super Eight exit. Meanwhile, news emerged that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) has decided to fine the players ₹5 million each. Although no official statement has been issued by the board, this decision has sparked a new debate within Pakistan cricket.

According to reports, the decision to take action against the players was made after the defeat against India. The team managed to pass the group stage, but their performance in the Super 8s was poor. The match against New Zealand was washed out due to rain, they lost to England, and failed to secure the required margin against Sri Lanka. As a result, Pakistan was eliminated from the semi-final race.

Shahid Afridi reprimanded

Former captain Shahid Afridi has openly expressed his displeasure with the PCB's decision. Speaking on a TV show, he said that simply imposing fines will achieve nothing. According to him, this is "narrow-minded thinking," and the real need is to change the system. Afridi believes that players who have consistently underperformed should be given a chance to work hard by being sent back to domestic cricket.

He also said that some players should be rested and that a change is necessary to inject new energy into the team. Afridi's statement has sparked debate on social media. Some support him, while others believe that it is important to hold the players accountable.

Pakistan's performance was disappointing.

Under Salman Ali Agha's captaincy, Pakistan registered victories against the USA, the Netherlands, and Namibia in the group stage, but a defeat against India increased the pressure on the team. A poor performance in the Super 8s led to their elimination.

The question now is whether imposing fines will solve the team's problems or if heeding Afridi's advice and making major changes is necessary. This is a time for introspection for Pakistan cricket. All eyes will be on the board's path in the coming months.