Legendary Pakistan fast bowler Wasim Akram has launched a sharp critique of modern cricket administration, accusing several national boards of poor governance and claiming that players have become “hostages” to systemic dysfunction. His remarks, made during a televised interview and later echoed in print, underline growing frustration within the cricket community about how politics, favoritism, and mismanagement are undermining the sport’s integrity.
Akram, who has previously served as coach and mentor in multiple international and franchise setups, said the core problem lies in how boards are being run by non-cricketing bureaucrats and politically appointed officials. “The people running cricket today often have no connection with the game. They make decisions from boardrooms, not dressing rooms,” he said. “Players are hostages to mismanagement — they can’t focus on performance when their futures are being dictated by administrators who don’t understand cricket.”
He specifically criticized the lack of accountability and transparency in player selection, contract management, and domestic scheduling. Akram argued that constant reshuffling of management and selectors has created instability, while inconsistent domestic policies are leaving talented young players in limbo. “Every few months there’s a new chairman, a new chief selector, a new set of ideas. How can a system develop when the foundation keeps shifting?” he asked.
According to Akram, the administrative chaos extends beyond Pakistan. He pointed out that several cricket boards, including those of Bangladesh, West Indies, and even parts of the subcontinent, suffer from similar issues — overcentralization, poor financial governance, and short-term decision-making driven by media pressure or political influence. “It’s not one country — the pattern is global. Boards are prioritizing control over competence,” he warned.
The former captain’s comments have struck a chord among players and coaches who’ve long complained about the disconnect between management and the actual needs of the team. Akram noted that many modern players face uncertainty regarding match fees, fitness protocols, and tournament schedules. “A player should only worry about cricket — training, fitness, and performance. But now, he worries about payments, selection, and politics. That’s not how professional sport is supposed to work,” he said.
Akram called for sweeping reform across cricket’s administrative structures. He proposed that national boards adopt a more corporate governance model, where decision-making is transparent, and professionals with experience in management and cricket share responsibility equally. He also urged for stronger player associations to ensure that cricketers’ voices are heard in administrative decisions.
The 58-year-old legend concluded with a pointed message: “If the boards don’t fix their systems, the game will stagnate. You can’t build champions in chaos.”
Wasim Akram’s criticism comes at a pivotal time when global cricket faces challenges of over-scheduling, franchise dominance, and dwindling player well-being. His remarks not only reflect his personal frustration but also echo a broader truth — that cricket’s future depends not just on talent and technology, but on the competence and integrity of those entrusted to govern it.
12BET Shortlisted for Sportsbook Operator of the Year at SBC Awards 2025