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Xtra Time Web Desk: Pakistan’s recent dismal performance in international cricket has sparked growing concerns about the impact of political interference and nepotism on the nation's favorite sport. Following a shocking 0-2 home series defeat to Bangladesh, Pakistan dropped to ninth in the ICC Test rankings, its lowest position in nearly 60 years. This defeat marked the team's tenth consecutive home Test without a win, adding to a string of early exits from both the 50-over and T20 World Cups last year.

At the center of the controversy is Mohsin Naqvi, the current chairman of the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB), who also serves as the country’s interior minister. His dual role has raised eyebrows, with critics questioning his qualifications to lead the cricket board while managing the country’s security during a period of rising terrorist threats.

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In the last two years, Pakistani cricket has experienced significant upheaval, with four different coaches, three board chairs, and three captains, alongside multiple changes to domestic competition formats. This instability, according to cricket analysts, has directly impacted the team’s performance on the field. Ahsan Iftikhar Nagi, a cricket journalist and former PCB media manager, stated, “When we have chaos and chronic instability within the board, it reflects in on-field performances.”

The issue of favoritism has also come under scrutiny, with former Prime Minister Imran Khan, a cricketing hero who led Pakistan to victory in the 1992 World Cup, accusing Naqvi of damaging the team by placing unqualified individuals in key positions. Khan, who is currently imprisoned on charges he claims are politically motivated, stated that "favorites" had been imposed to run cricket, contributing to its decline.

Najam Sethi, a former PCB chairman, added that the role of PCB chief has become a "sinecure," filled by individuals lacking expertise. “Generals, judges, and bureaucrats, with no knowledge of the game, have been appointed,” Sethi remarked.

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Naqvi’s leadership came under increased scrutiny after the Bangladesh loss, with calls for his resignation mounting. Rana Sanaullah Khan, an adviser to Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, hinted that Naqvi’s future as PCB chief may be in doubt, noting that both positions demand full-time attention.