30/08/2026
I started watching cricket back in 2007, and by 2009–10, I had started understanding the game.
I danced with joy in 2009. I cried in 2010. After the 2011 semi-final defeat, I said I would never follow cricket again.
Obviously, I came back. 😂
I cursed Rahat Ali for years after that drop in 2015. I witnessed Pakistan go 3/3 in CT13. I watched India thrash us in World Cups. I saw the Spot Fixing scandal in 2010. I lived through the heartbreaks of 2021 and 2022.
But through all of it, there was always hope.
Even after losing a series to Bangladesh in 2015 for the first time, I still believed better days would come. Because back then, despite all the problems, there were people running Pakistan cricket who at least understood the game.
Today, I don't see that anymore.
Mohsin Naqvi said after the 2024 World Cup that there would be a “surgery.”
I guess the surgery is finally complete.
Unfortunately, it seems like the patient came out even worse.
Our coaches are now happy because we beat Afghanistan, UAE, Canada, Sri Lanka and Zimbabwe. Our selectors are telling the media that they would be more than happy if Pakistan manages to win a Test against West Indies or England's second- and third-worst WTC sides.
And honestly, the saddest part is that Pakistan itself has become the first among them.
Pakistan cricket has reached a point where mediocrity is being celebrated.
For almost 20 years, I kept coming back because there was always a belief that things would eventually get better.
Today, that belief is gone.
This isn't just about losing matches anymore. It's about losing the identity of Pakistan cricket.
And I genuinely believe Pakistan cricket has not only lost its way—it is slowly losing its fanbase too.
I've supported this team through everything.
But for the first time since 2007, I have no hope left.
Pakistan cricket is doomed if the same people continue running it.
And right now, I honestly don't see any light at the end of this tunnel. 💔🇵🇰
-AA
