PAK vs ENG: Former Pakistan Coach Gives His Honest Opinion on Pak Cricket, Says Players Have 'False View' About Themselves

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Former Pakistan coach Mickey Arthur, known for his multiple stints with the national team, recently shared a candid opinion about the state of Pakistan cricket following their dismal performance in the first Test against England in Multan.

The defeat, which saw Pakistan losing by an innings and 47 runs, extended their losing streak to six consecutive Tests. Arthur, who was sacked in January after Pakistan’s poor showing in the 50-over World Cup, expressed his concerns over several issues plaguing the team in a series of tweets.

Arthur wrote: "Just a few thoughts as a follower of Pakistan cricket!
1. The players are very very skilled and are the right ones.
2. The inconsistency around selection, environment, and administration plays a role in team morale, give the players structure and they will perform!
3. The vile rhetoric from media and media-driven agendas do not help!
4. The promotion of players by player agents or media makes the player sometimes think he is way more important than he is in reality, creating a false view!
5. Playing for Pakistan should be the best time ever!"

Arthur's remarks come at a critical juncture for Pakistan, as they face mounting pressure after their latest setback against England. The loss has not only left Pakistan trailing 0-1 in the three-match series but also raised questions about the leadership of Test captain Shan Masood.

Reports suggest that the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) may be considering a change in leadership after the series, with Mohammad Rizwan and Salman Agha emerging as potential candidates for the captaincy.

Masood's struggles as captain have been ongoing, beginning with a 0-3 series loss to Australia and a historic 0-2 defeat at home to Bangladesh. The latest defeat against England, despite Pakistan’s impressive first-innings total of 556, further highlighted the team’s vulnerabilities, especially in their bowling attack, which conceded 823 runs, driven by a record-breaking 454-run partnership between Joe Root and Harry Brook.

The PCB has responded by reforming the men’s national selection committee, introducing new members such as Aleem Dar, Aqib Javed, and Azhar Ali. This move is aimed at improving the consistency and decision-making processes within the team, with an official squad announcement expected soon for the remaining Tests and the upcoming white-ball series against Australia.