Sun Mar 23 08:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Shehzad Slams PCB Over Shadab’s Selection, NCA’s Performance After Crushing Pakistan Defeat
**Christchurch, New Zealand:** Veteran Pakistan batter Ahmed Shehzad launched a scathing attack on the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) following Pakistan’s humiliating 10-wicket defeat to New Zealand in the first T20I of their five-match series. Shehzad specifically targeted all-rounder Shadab Khan’s inclusion in the squad, questioning his recent form and suggesting ulterior motives behind his selection.
“You’re talking about Shadab,” Shehzad stated in an interview with Cricket Pakistan. “Tell me, what performance has he delivered? Who brought him into the team? The PCB has a different plan with Shadab, and he was included for a different purpose.” Shadab bowled only two overs, conceding 18 runs without taking a wicket in the match where New Zealand chased down a paltry 92 runs in just 10.1 overs.
Shehzad’s criticism extended beyond Shadab, encompassing the entire team’s dismal performance – their worst ever T20I defeat in terms of balls remaining. He questioned the effectiveness of Pakistan’s senior bowlers, highlighting their lack of impact in the match.
Shehzad also directed his ire towards the National Cricket Academy (NCA), accusing it of failing to produce quality players in recent years. He contrasted the NCA’s current state with its past success in developing players like himself, Mohammad Amir, Imad Wasim, Umar Amin, and Shan Masood. He directly challenged NCA chief Nadeem Khan, demanding accountability for the academy’s perceived lack of progress and questioning his qualifications for the position.
Shehzad’s outspoken criticism has ignited a debate about the PCB’s selection policies, the NCA’s effectiveness, and the overall state of Pakistan’s cricket infrastructure. The remaining matches of the series are now under intense scrutiny, with Shehzad’s comments adding another layer of pressure on the already struggling Pakistani team.
First Piper 