Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) Chairman Mohsin Naqvi on Saturday stated that some talented cricketers fail to reach their potential because they stop working hard after gaining fame. Addressing the media at a Pakistan Super League (PSL) franchise Lahore Qalandars event, Naqvi emphasized that the sport demands consistent effort, warning that players risk wasting their talent.
"I have seen many cricketers who abandon hard work once they achieve a little fame. This is a game that requires continuous effort, and otherwise, talented players go to waste," he said.
Naqvi also questioned why players selected from a population of 240 million still require basic training upon reaching the national team. "If we have to teach fundamental skills to the 14 players selected from a nation of 24 crore, then what is the point?"
The PCB chairman clarified that his remarks were not directed at any specific individual, acknowledging that the board itself had made past mistakes. "These were our own errors.
We have corrected ourselves and will continue to do so," he said, expressing hope that collective efforts would yield better results. Naqvi stressed that the PCB cannot develop talent alone and must work alongside franchises and cricket associations.
He highlighted the importance of school cricket, noting that the board plans to involve 3,000 children in its upcoming programme. Furthermore, he mentioned that the National Cricket Academy (NCA) is actively developing players.
He noted that the board is committed to structural reforms to ensure that the pipeline of talent remains consistent and professional. Regarding the upcoming two-Test series against Sri Lanka, Naqvi noted that the squad would feature approximately 80% new faces.
This shift is part of a broader strategy to introduce fresh blood into the national setup. The International Cricket Council (ICC) World Test Championship series is scheduled for November 9 to 21 in Rawalpindi and Lahore.
The board is looking forward to seeing how these new players perform on the international stage. Naqvi concluded by reiterating that the focus remains on merit and discipline.
He urged the fans and media to support the process of rebuilding the team's core values. The PCB is currently reviewing its domestic structure to ensure that the transition from grassroots to the national team is seamless and effective for all aspiring cricketers.