Cricket News

Former Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur opens up about bitter exit under Zaka Ashraf

Former Pakistan Men’s Team Director Mickey Arthur has raised eyebrows with his recent, scathing criticism of the Pakistan Cricket Board and its former Chairman, Zaka Ashraf. In an interview with ESPNcricinfo, Arthur recounted his abrupt and, in his words, “unprofessional” removal from the team after the 2023 ODI World Cup, placing the blame squarely on Ashraf’s shoulders.

Arthur expressed profound disappointment with the way he and his support staff were let go. He described the “review meeting” with Ashraf as a charade, lacking transparency and seriousness. The suddenness of the decision, with Mohammad Hafeez already waiting to replace him, left Arthur feeling disrespected and disillusioned. “I would have had a bit more respect for Zaka if he’d said it straight out. The way I realised the whole thing was a charade was Mohammad Hafeez was already sitting at the PCB offices,” he said.

While acknowledging Pakistan’s disappointing World Cup performance, Arthur defended his coaching methods and highlighted the team’s potential. He emphasized the lack of support mechanisms for players, claiming they were “playing for themselves” due to insecurity and instability. His comments suggest a deeper problem within the PCB structure, which extends beyond coaching alone.

“Pakistan cricket is in a very disappointing place”

“When there’s security within the environment, Pakistan is very good. When there’s that insecurity, players start playing for themselves instead of the team because they’re thinking of the next tour and the next contract. That’s a dangerous place to be in, and that’s kind of where Pakistan cricket is now. And that’s something very disappointing and sad for me,” Arthur said.

Arthur’s allegations have sparked debate within the cricketing community. Some support his criticisms, calling for better governance and player welfare within the PCB. Others point to Pakistan‘s recent struggles under new leadership, suggesting Arthur’s methods weren’t entirely successful. Regardless, the episode exposes tensions within the PCB and raises questions about its professionalism and player management.

For Arthur, the experience seems to have left a bitter taste. He still follows Pakistan cricket, but admits his passion has diminished, highlighting the lasting impact of this controversial episode. “The vigour and thirst and passion I have for Pakistan cricket waned a little bit after that. To be brutally honest, I think Pakistan cricket is in a very disappointing place,” he added.