Pakistan players 'more focused on earning money': Ex-chief selector claims

Former Pakistan Test spinner and ex-chief selector Iqbal Qasim has criticized the current cohort of cricketers, alleging they are more preoccupied with accumulating wealth rather than honing their skills and comprehending the game. Qasim, who represented Pakistan in 50 Tests and served on the selection committee on multiple occasions, also raised concerns about the absence of long-term planning and consistency in selection choices.

According to Qasim, who earned his selection committee position without any monetary compensation, the selectors are now being remunerated substantial salaries for their roles, but he perceives a deficiency in strategic foresight when making decisions.

Qasim questions the priorities of contemporary players, claiming that they are not as committed to enhancing their game awareness and skills as their predecessors. He asserts that players now have more financial prospects, but many young cricketers view success primarily in terms of securing Pakistan Super League contracts. Despite the changes in cricket over the past few decades, Qasim maintains that the formula for success remains the same: the amount of time a player individually dedicates to refining their skills and understanding the game. However, he notes that this dedication is not as prevalent in Pakistan cricket currently.

Furthermore, Qasim emphasizes that the best players have consistently engaged independently in improving their skills, fitness, and ability to anticipate match scenarios. He highlights that for him, representing his country was the greatest reward a player could receive. Qasim believes that enhancing one's quality as a player eventually leads to increased financial gains, and there is no need to actively chase it.

To illustrate his point, Qasim references Pakistan's historic Test victory over India in Bangalore in 1987. He recalls receiving advice from former India captain Bishen Singh Bedi, who criticized Maninder Singh's bowling in the second innings on a pitch with a considerable amount of turn. Following Bedi's guidance, Qasim focused on bowling in the right areas and utilizing the pitch's inherent turn, which contributed to Pakistan's victory.

Additionally, Qasim recalls refusing to exclude Shahid Afridi from the West Indies tour, despite opposition from captain Misbah-ul-Haq, as he believed the selection of the best 16 players and the captain's role in choosing the 11 were separate domains. Afridi ultimately played and took several wickets in his first match. Qasim attributes interference between different authorities as a significant issue in Pakistan cricket, resulting in confusion and controversy.