Pakistan cricket has always been surrounded by controversies. This year was turmoil for Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) as they did not have a stable leadership. After Pakistan failed to enter the semi-finals of the ODI World Cup 2023, their problem got worst. They made changes in their management but since it was influenced by politics, it is hard to believe that it would do something better. Here are five biggest Pakistan controversies in 2023.
Mickey Arthur ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ statement
Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur had criticised India for not playing the song ‘Dil Dil Pakistan’ during their league stage match against India in Ahmedabad. He gave not playing the song reason for their lose.
Zaka Ashraf calling India “enemy”
PCB chief Zaka Ashraf referred India as a “dushman mulk” (enemy country) and said Pakistan team is traveling to a enemy country for the ODI World Cup 2023.
Babar Azam leaked whatsapp chat controversy
Babar Azam alleged Whatsapp conversation with the Pakistan Cricket Board Chief Operating Officer Salman Naseer created trouble in Pakistan cricket.
According to the leaked conversations, Babar was questioned by the PCB COO about a variety of subjects.
Salman Butt appointed consultant to chief selector
PCB was criticized heavily for appointing spot-fixing convicted former captain Salman Butt as consultant to Chief Selector. In the next, he stepped down from the position.
Mohammad Rizwan Namaz controversy
Pakistan’s opening batter Mohammad Rizwan had to face a legal case for preforming Namaz in the ground. A complaint was lodged against Rizwan by attorney Vineet Jindal for doing Namaz (prayer) on the cricket field during the match against the Netherlands.