Former Pakistan captain Shahid Afridi has criticised the reported decision of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) to fine national players after their early exit from the ICC T20 World Cup, calling the move "small-minded".
Pakistan were eliminated in the Super Eight stage of the ongoing ICC Men's T20 World Cup after losing two of their three matches. The team failed to progress further in the tournament, drawing criticism from fans and former players.
According to media reports, the PCB has imposed a fine of 50 lakh Pakistani rupees on each member of the World Cup squad. The amount is roughly equivalent to Rs. 16.2 lakh in Indian currency. However, the board has not issued an official statement confirming the penalties, nor has it denied the reports.
Afridi questions amount of fine
Afridi said his objection was not to the idea of a penalty, but to the amount imposed. In an interview with a Pakistani television channel, he questioned how a 50 lakh rupee fine would impact professional cricketers.
"I cannot understand this decision at all. This is very small-minded thinking. Such a small fine. What will 50 lakh rupees achieve? This doesn't even seem like a penalty," Afridi said.
Also Read | Khamenei's death overshadows Asia Cup as Iran women's football team refuses to sing national anthem
He suggested that stricter measures would have been more meaningful. According to him, players who underperformed should be asked to return to domestic first-class cricket. He also said some cricketers should not be considered for national selection for the next couple of years.
PCB yet to respond officially
The PCB is currently headed by Mohsin Naqvi. While reports of the fines have circulated widely, the board has not formally commented on the matter.
The lack of an official clarification has led to speculation among fans and analysts. Some believe the reported fines indicate internal dissatisfaction within the board over the team’s performance.
Pakistan's early exit marks another disappointing ICC campaign for the side, which has struggled for consistency in recent global tournaments.
