Salman Agha, Hesson, Babar in firing line as experts warn Naqvi: 'Pakistan cricket needs surgery' after World Cup exit

Pakistan cricket. What a rollercoaster, eh? One minute you think they're about to turn the corner, the next they're careening off the track. Failing to reach the semifinals of yet another ICC event – this time the ongoing World Cup – has really lit the fuse. The knives are out, and some big names are feeling the heat.

Salman Agha, coach Grant Bradburn, even Babar Azam himself are all under the microscope. The chatter is getting louder, the pressure is mounting, and Pakistan Cricket Board chairman Mohsin Naqvi is facing a storm. Experts are saying Pakistan cricket needs surgery, not just a band-aid. Ouch. That's gotta sting.

Four consecutive ICC events without a semifinal appearance. Let's be honest, that's simply not good enough for a nation as passionate about cricket as Pakistan. They were runners-up at the 2022 T20 World Cup – a high that now feels like a distant memory. What's gone wrong? It's not just about losing games; it's about the manner of the defeats, the lack of fight, the absence of that 'never say die' attitude that we associate with Pakistan teams of old.

So, what's the diagnosis? Well, the spotlight is firmly on Salman Agha. His form with the bat has been inconsistent, and in a batting lineup that already lacks firepower in the middle order, that's a major concern. Is he the right fit for the number six role? The selectors will be asking themselves that question, and rightly so.

Then there's the coaching setup. Grant Bradburn, brought in to steady the ship, hasn't exactly inspired confidence. The team looks disjointed, the strategies seem muddled, and there's a general lack of clarity in their approach. Is it a case of the players not responding to his methods, or is it a deeper issue with the overall coaching philosophy? These are tough questions that need honest answers.

And then there's Babar Azam. Pakistan's captain and star batsman. Look, there's no denying his talent. When he's on song, he's a joy to watch. But the burden of captaincy seems to be weighing him down. His decision-making in crucial moments has been questionable, and his own form has suffered as a result. Is it time for him to relinquish the captaincy and focus solely on his batting? It's a debate that's raging across Pakistan right now.

What's fascinating is how quickly things can change in cricket. One minute you're a hero, the next you're a zero. But Pakistan cricket has a history of bouncing back from adversity. They've got the talent, the passion, and the fan base to turn things around. But it needs a shake-up. A serious re-evaluation of everything from selection policies to coaching methods to team culture.

The PCB chairman, Mohsin Naqvi, has a huge task on his hands. He needs to be bold, decisive, and willing to make tough calls. He needs to bring in the right people, create a clear vision for the future, and empower the players to perform at their best. It's a massive challenge, but one that he simply has to get right.

Looking ahead, the future of Pakistan cricket hinges on the decisions made in the coming weeks. Will they stick with the current setup, or will they opt for a radical overhaul? Will Babar Azam continue as captain, or will a new leader be appointed? The answers to these questions will determine the trajectory of Pakistan cricket for years to come. One thing's for sure: it's going to be a fascinating ride. And I, for one, will be watching with bated breath. Bring on the next chapter. Maybe IPL 2026 will hold better news for some of these players.